Four More Mosquito Samples Test Positive For West Nile in Suffolk

Four more mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus in Suffolk County, county health officials announced Friday.

The samples were collected on July 8 from Lindenhurst (2), Nesconset (1), and East Northport (1). To date this year, seven mosquito samples have tested positive in the county; the first was collected in South Huntington on June 18, the second was collected on June 23 in Selden, and the third was collected on June 30 in West Babylon.

West Nile virus, first detected in birds and mosquito samples in Suffolk County in 1999 and again each year thereafter, is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. No humans, horses or birds have tested positive for West Nile virus in Suffolk this year.

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in mosquito samples or birds indicates the presence of West Nile virus in the area,” Suffolk County Health Services Commissioner Dr. James L. Tomarken said. “While there is no cause for alarm, we urge residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to reduce the exposure to the virus, which can be debilitating to humans.”

To reduce the mosquito population around homes, residents should try to eliminate stagnant water where mosquitoes breed:

· Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers.

· Remove all discarded tires on the property.

· Make sure roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters.

· Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.

· Change the water in birdbaths.

· Clean vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds and keep shrubs and grass trimmed.

· Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.

· Drain water from pool covers.