The New York State Department of Health reported today that three additional pools of mosquitoes in Nassau County have tested positive for West Nile virus. This brings the total to 14 pools. The mosquito pools were collected on August 27 in the following locations: East Garden City, Farmingdale and Hicksville. Both the East Garden City and Farmingdale sites had previous positive pools collected between August 13 and 15.

Nassau County is continuing surveillance in those areas where positive pools of mosquitoes have been found by conducting additional trapping for adult mosquitoes, by inspecting breeding sites, and, when necessary, applying larvicide.

Commissioner of Health, David M. Ackman, MD, MPH, said, " It is not surprising to find an increase in mosquito activity later in the summer when there are greater numbers of mature mosquitoes." He urged the public to take reasonable precautions to avoid exposure to mosquitoes. "Make sure that window and door screens are in place and in good repair; eliminate standing water from around homes and places of business; minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most abundant; wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when out of doors for extended time; consider the use of mosquito repellent when spending time outside and follow manufacturers' directions carefully to ensure proper application. Insect repellents should not be applied to children under three years of age."

To call about a mosquito problem, dial 571-8707 on Monday through Friday from 7:45 am to 3:30 pm. To call about sightings of dead birds, dial the State Hotline toll free number at 1-866-537-2473 on Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm, or the Nassau County Department of Health at 571-8707 from 7:45 am to 3:30 weekdays. Please be advised that most of the reported birds will not be collected. Residents can hear the latest information about West Nile virus and where larviciding will occur by dialing 571-2500. The information is available in English or Spanish 24 hours a day.