West Nile virus found in 14 Suffolk mosquito samples

Mosquitoes in nine Suffolk County areas have tested positive for West Nile virus, health officials said Monday.

The 14 mosquito samples were collected in Nesconset, Northport, Dix Hills, Melville, Lindenhurst, West Babylon, St. James, Rocky Point and Holtsville on July 16, according to the Suffolk County Health Department.

Mosquitoes collected on July 1 in Nesconset also tested positive for the virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Some people may never develop illness after being bitten, while others can experience symptoms ranging from mild fever and fatigue to joint pain and neurological problems.

People over the age of 50 and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk of becoming sick from the virus. Last year there were 21 reported human cases in Suffolk County. Nine people in Suffolk have died due to the virus since 2000.

There have been no human cases so far on Long Island this year. Last week, the state Health Department said a person in Onondaga County contracted the virus, was hospitalized and is now recovering.

West Nile virus has been detected every summer on Long Island since it was first discovered in New York back in 1999.

"Mosquito activity is picking up with the warmer weather and with it comes the risk of being exposed to West Nile virus," said Suffolk Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott. "While there is no cause for alarm, we advise residents to take precautions and cooperate with us in our efforts to reduce exposure to mosquito-borne diseases."

Pigott recommended that people dump standing water on their property since it can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Additionally, wear long pants, long sleeves and spray repellent when spending time outdoors at times when mosquitoes are most active.

Surveillance conducted earlier this summer also found mosquitoes with the Jamestown Canyon virus, which has symptoms similar to West Nile virus including fatigue and joint pain.

By Lisa L. Colangelo

lisa.colangelo@newsday.com@lisalcolangelo

Lisa joined Newsday as a staff writer in 2019. She previously worked at amNewYork, the New York Daily News and the Asbury Park Press covering politics, government and general assignment.