Preventing West Nile Virus

Along with the joys of summer comes the reality of mosquito season.

And with that brings the increased risk of contracting mosquito-borne infections like West Nile virus, a disease transmitted from birds to mosquitoes that can cause encephalitis and other health problems, experts say.

No local residents have been diagnosed with West Nile this year, according to officials. Still, six mosquito samples and two birds have tested positive for the virus.

That’s why Lou D’Amaro, D-Huntington Station, is urging county residents to call the Department of Health Services’ Public Health Hotline at (631) 787-2200, Monday through Friday between 9 a.m.-4 p.m., or leave a message after hours, if they spot dead birds in their community.

“As positive tests for West Nile virus are verified, we are asking everyone to keep the Health Department informed about dead bird sightings so the proper authorities can track where the virus is present and take the necessary precautions,” D’Amaro said, in a statement.

Birds bit by infected mosquitoes could indicate the presence of the virus in a given area. These birds include crows, blue jays, hawks, falcons, owls, exotic or unusual bird species. Anyone spotting a dead bird of that kind, or peculiar circumstances such as die-offs of multiple birds, is urged to notify officials.

“If you spot a dead bird in your community that has been there less than 24 hours and shows no sign of other trauma, you should report the sighting on the county’s hotline,” D’Amaro said.

Health officials can identify over the phone if it is a bird that requires testing.

“If the department determines that testing is not needed, they will provide you with instructions on how to proceed,” D’Amaro said.

West Nile virus was first detected in Suffolk County in 1999, officials say. Although not everyone bitten by an infected mosquito will develop the disease, it is a very serious and potentially fatal ailment, D’Amaro said.

Approximately 20 percent of those who become infected will develop some form of West Nile illness, health officials say.

Mild symptoms include fever, headache, body aches and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. It can lead to West Nile encephalitis or meningitis with severe symptoms including high fever, muscle weakness, stupor and disorientation, according to health officials.

To avoid mosquito bites, be sure windows and door screens have no holes and tears. Trim overgrown bushes near the home and making sure that stagnant water does not accumulate in bird baths, empty flower pots, abandoned tires or chair cushions. In addition, empty the water in children’s pools immediately after use and avoid going outdoors from dusk to dawn – peak mosquito-biting hours.

Residents who do go outside at these times of day should wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Officials say insect repellent containing DEET has been proven to be most effective at reducing mosquito bites, assuming they are applied according to manufacturer’s instructions. To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water in public areas, call (631) 852-4270.

“We want everyone to have a happy, healthy summer,” D’Amaro said. “By being on the lookout for potentially disease-carrying birds and keeping ourselves protected from mosquitoes, we can confidently enjoy all that Long Island has to offer this time of year.”

For further information or medical questions related to West Nile virus, call (631) 854-0333 or visit the Department of Health Services’ web site at www.suffolkcountyny.gov/health.