2nd West Nile Virus Case Reported In Suffolk: Officials

ISLIP, NY — Suffolk County health officials have confirmed the county's second human case of West Nile virus this season, officials said.

The person, who is older than 50 and lives in the Town of Islip, began experiencing symptoms consistent with West Nile virus in early August and was hospitalized, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services.

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

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, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. The virus can be fatal.

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

"We urge everyone, especially those at higher risk, to take rigorous precautions against mosquito bites," Suffolk County Department of Health Services Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott said. "Unprotected exposure carries the risk of West Nile virus and can lead to hospitalization."

Residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites throughout mosquito season, which generally runs from June through November.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, though patients can receive supportive care. Anyone experiencing symptoms is advised to contact a healthcare provider.