West Nile Virus Found in West Babylon

A mosquito sample found in West Babylon has tested positive for West Nile virus, the New York State Department of Health confirmed through the Suffolk County Health Services (SCDHS) on Thursday.

The mosquito, part of a breed known as Culex pipiens-restuans, was collected on June 28 by an employee of the SCDHS’ Public Health Division, according to a statement.

This updates comes only a week after it was announced that West Nile was on June 20.

The SCDHS didn't announce the exact location of where the mosquito was found in West Babylon.

The SCDHS did announce the presence of West Nile in a dead crow found in Northport on June 27.

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in a mosquito pool indicates that the virus is actively circulating within the mosquito population,” said Suffolk County Health Services (SCDHS) Commissioner Dr. James L. Tomarken.

“While there's no cause for alarm, we urge residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to contain the spread of the virus, which can be debilitating to humans.”

The county has again asked residents , found on their properties to be taken and tested for the virus.

In order to help stop the spread of both the virus and the pesky insects, the County has suggested residents do the following:

• 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.

According to the SCDHS, "most people infected with West Nile virus will experience mild or no symptoms, but some can develop severe symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. The symptoms might last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent."

To report dead birds, call the West Nile virus hotline in Suffolk County at 631-787-2200, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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

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