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SUFFOLK COUNTY, New York – A total of 15 new mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus, Dr James Tomarken, Suffolk County Health Commissioner said Friday.
The samples, all from Culex pipiens-restuans, were collected between September 3 and 9 at Northport (2), Lindenhurst (1), West Babylon (1), Farmingville (1), Huntington (1), Setauket (1), ). Port Jeff Sta. (1), Aquebogue (2), Jamesport (2) and Southold (1). Two Culex salinarius were found in South Huntington (1) and Rocky Point (1).
To date, the county has reported a horse, 132 mosquito samples and 10 birds tested positive for West Nile virus.
In addition, the first human case of West Nile virus in Suffolk County for this year was reported in a city in Babylon last week.
West Nile virus, first detected in birds and mosquito samples in Suffolk County in 1999 and every year thereafter, is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.
"The confirmation of West Nile virus in mosquito samples or birds indicates the presence of West Nile virus in the region," said Tomarken. "Although there is no need to alarm, we advise residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to reduce exposure to the virus, which can be disabling for the elderly." 39, man. "
According to Tomarken, most people infected with West Nile virus will have mild or no symptoms, but some may develop severe symptoms, including high fever, headache, stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis. The symptoms may last for several weeks and the neurological effects may be permanent. People, especially those aged 50 and over, or those with weakened immune systems, who are most at risk, are advised to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
To avoid mosquito bites, residents are encouraged to:
- Minimize outdoor activities between dusk and dawn.
- Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when mosquitoes are active.
- Use a mosquito repellent by following the instructions on the label.
- Make sure all windows and doors have screens and all screens are in good condition.
- Prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs inside and outside your home. Once a week, empty and scrub, flip, cover or discard containers containing water, such as vases, pet water bowls, flower saucers, discarded tires, buckets, pool covers, baths, etc. Birds, garbage cans and barrels of rain.
Dead birds may indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. To report dead birds, call the Public Health Information Line in Suffolk County at 631-852-5999 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday.
Residents are encouraged to take a picture of any bird in question.
To report mosquito problems or stagnant puddles, call the Vector Control Division of the Department of Public Works at 631-852-4270.
For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the Department of Health Services website at the following address: suffolkcountyny.gov.
Image via Shutterstock
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