Watch Hill Mosquito Sample 1 Of 2 In Suffolk County To Test Positive For West Nile Virus: Officials

WATCH HILL, NY — A mosquito sample in Watch Hill is one of two in Suffolk County that tested positive for West Nile Virus, the county's Department of Health Services said Wednesday.

Another sample tested positive in Bay Shore.

Both samples were Culex pipiens-restuans.

Two other samples were collected in Bay Shore.

To date this season, 149 mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus, five mosquito samples have tested positive for Jamestown Canyon virus, and nine mosquito samples
have tested positive for Potosi virus.

Previously, two dead crows and one dead Blue Jay tested positive for West Nile virus.

Seven people have tested positive for West Nile Virus
this season.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people will experience mild or no symptoms. Some can develop mild to severe symptoms
including headache, neck stiffness, vision loss, high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, paralysis, and potentially death.

Everyone is urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Individuals 50 and older, as well as those with compromised immune systems, are urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Dead birds could indicate the presence of West Nile virus.

To report a deceased bird on your property, contact the Bureau of Public Health Protection at 631-852-5999 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Residents are encouraged to submit a photo of the bird. To report mosquito problems, contact the Department
of Public Works Division of Vector Control at 631-852-4270.