Huntington Resident Is Suffolk's 7th West Nile Virus Case

HUNTINGTON, NY — Suffolk County health officials have reported the seventh human case of West Nile virus this season, involving a Town of Huntington resident who is believed to have contracted the virus while traveling abroad.

The resident, who is older than 50, began experiencing symptoms consistent with West Nile virus in September while outside the country, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services.

The person was not hospitalized, later returned to the United States and tested positive for the virus, officials said. The resident has since recovered.

Health officials believe the case is travel-related.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. About 20 percent of people who become infected develop symptoms, according to health officials.

Mild symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. The virus can be fatal.

People experiencing symptoms are advised to contact their health care provider. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, though patients may receive supportive care.

People older than 50 and those with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems are at greater risk of severe infection, officials said.

Suffolk County residents are being urged to take precautions against mosquito bites during mosquito season, which runs from June through November.