Second Positive Test of West Nile Virus Found in Port Jefferson Station

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS) announced on Monday that more mosquito samples of West Nile virus have been detected throughout the county, including another one in Port Jefferson Station, .

This latest was one of 21 mosquito samples that tested positive for West Nile virus collected between July 31 and Aug. 1. Besides Port Jefferson Station, locations that also tested positive in this round included Rocky Point, East Setauket and Ridge among others.

According to the SCDHS, to date this year, 146 mosquito samples and eighteen birds have tested positive for the virus.

There has been and the New York State Department of Health is investigating one other probable human case.

"Though the number of mosquitoes testing positive is historically high for this time of year, we cannot predict if the numbers will continue to be high," said Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. James L. Tomarken in a statement. "There are many factors, such as weather, that affect mosquito population and activity."

Dr. Tomarken  asked that residents remain vigilant about reducing exposure to mosquitoes considering the high number of samples being found.

Residents can reduce the mosquito population around homes, by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.

According to the SCDHS, most people infected with West Nile virus will experience mild or no symptoms, but some can develop symptoms such as high fever, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis.

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

The SCDHS suggests the following measures to eliminate stagnant water:

• 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.

The SCDHS also warned that dead birds found on area properties may indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. 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 mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at (631) 852-4270.

For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-853-3055.