Suffolk County reports first human case of West Nile virus this season
Officials say the person is over the age of 50 and lives in the Town of Brookhaven. They began experiencing symptoms consistent with West Nile virus at the end of July and were hospitalized.
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Suffolk County health officials have confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in the county this season.
Officials say the person is over the age of 50 and lives in the Town of Brookhaven. They began experiencing symptoms consistent with West Nile virus at the end of July and were hospitalized.
Officials are reminding residents over 50, as well as those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems, that they face a higher risk of severe infection.
Mild symptoms 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, according to health officials.
Health officials are urging residents to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors and avoid standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed, to reduce the risk of infection.
Residents experiencing symptoms of West Nile virus are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.
