2nd Case Of West Nile Virus Found In Suffolk

BROOKHAVEN TOWN, NY — The second case of West Nile virus in Suffolk County this season has presented in the Town of Brookhaven, according to Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Services Dr. Gregson Pigott.

The person, who is over the age of 50 and resides in the town, became ill in early August with symptoms consistent with West Nile virus, he said, adding that though the person has underlying medical conditions, they were not hospitalized and have been recuperating at home.

Dr. Pigott said the symptoms of West Nile virus might look like other conditions or health problems, why but that is why officials advise residents who experience symptoms to see a healthcare provider.

"A lab test is needed to confirm the diagnosis,” he added.

The first case of West Nile was reported in Huntington last week.

The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus was first detected in birds and mosquito samples in Suffolk in 1999, and then again yearly.

Most people infected with West Nile virus will experience mild to no symptoms, but others can develop severe symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.

The symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent. People, especially those 50 years of age or older, or those with compromised immune systems, who are most at risk, are urged to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Dr. Pigott offered the following tips to avoid mosquito bites:

• Minimize outdoor activities between dusk and dawn.
• Wear shoes and socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts when mosquitoes are active.
• Use mosquito repellent, following label directions carefully.
• Make sure all windows and doors have screens, and that all screens are in good repair.
• Keep mosquitoes from laying eggs inside and outside your home.
• Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out containers that hold water, such as vases, pet water bowls, flowerpot saucers, discarded tires, buckets, pool covers, birdbaths, trash cans, and rain barrels.

You can download a copy of Suffolk’s informational brochure “Get the Buzz on Mosquito Protection,” which is available in English and Spanish, and share it with your community.

Dead birds may indicate the presence of the West Nile virus in your area, so to report any, call the Bureau of Public Health Protection at631-852-5999 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Residents are also encouraged to photograph any bird in question. To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.

For more information on the West Nile virus, visit the Department of Health Services’ website.

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