Suffolk County Reports One New Case of West Nile Virus

Residents urged to take precautions

Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott today reported one new case of West Nile virus.

The individual, who is over 50 and resides in the Town of Brookhaven, began experiencing symptoms consistent with West Nile virus in late August, was hospitalized, and is currently recovering at home.

To date this year, Suffolk County has reported eight cases of West Nile virus, four from the Town of Islip, three from the Town of Brookhaven, and one from the Town of Babylon. All but one were over the age of 50. The first case was reported on August 7.

"We suspect there may be more cases of West Nile virus than we are reporting because many people who contract the virus may experience mild symptoms and do not seek medical attention," said Dr. Pigott. "There is no treatment for West Nile virus infection, but supportive care may help decrease the risk for developing complications in severe illness."

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of the virus typically occur one to 14 days after a person becomes infected. Mild symptoms may include fever, headache and body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.

West Nile virus can be fatal. Residents who experience symptoms are advised to visit their healthcare providers. Individuals who are most at risk for severe infection include those over 50 years of age and those with chronic illness or compromised immune systems. While there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, patients may be offered supportive therapy as needed.

Suffolk County residents are urged to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes during mosquito season, which extends from June 1 through November 1. To avoid mosquito bites, use insect repellent containing DEET*, spray clothing with repellent containing permethrin, avoid going outside from dusk to dawn when most mosquitoes are active, wear long sleeves and long pants when nighttime activity is unavoidable, eliminate standing water from flowerpots, clogged gutters, recycle bins, birdbaths, toys, swimming pool and hot tub covers.

For information about West Nile virus, including local data regarding infected mosquitoes and West Nile virus cases, visit https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Health-Services/Public-Health/Preventive-Services/Arthropod-borne-Diseases/Mosquitoes

To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.

*Follow label instructions. Consult healthcare provider before using insect repellent on young children.

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