16 new mosquito samples test positive for West Nile virus in Suffolk County
Officials say samples were collected between Aug. 25 and 27 in Dix Hills, Melville, West Islip, Holbrook, Lindenhurst, West Babylon, Copiague, Farmingville, Northport, Setauket and Rocky Point.
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The Suffolk County Department of Health Services announced Friday that 16 new mosquito samples have tested positive for the West Nile virus.
Officials say samples were collected between Aug. 25 and 27 in Dix Hills, Melville, West Islip, Holbrook, Lindenhurst, West Babylon, Copiague, Farmingville, Northport, Setauket and Rocky Point.
Three other samples included were collected on Aug. 25 in Bay Shore, Fire Island Pines and Watch Hill, Fire Island.
The agency says a total of 120 mosquito samples have tested positive for the illness this season.
A human case involving a 50-year-old Town of Brookhaven resident was also confirmed last month.
Health officials say most infected individuals experience mild to no symptoms. Some may develop headaches, vision loss, fever, confusion, muscle weakness, paralysis and potentially death.
The public is urged to take precautions and avoid being bitten by mosquitos, especially those over the age of 50 or with compromised immune systems.
Dead birds can also be infected with the virus. Any resident who finds one on their property is advised to call the Suffolk County Department of Health Services Bureau of Public Health Protection at 631-852-5999.
