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September 8, 2006

First Human Case of West Nile Virus in Nassau County in 2006

The New York State Department of Health has diagnosed a Nassau County resident with West Nile virus. This is the first human case in Nassau County this year.

The individual is a 77-year-old man who resides in Rockville Centre. Symptoms included fever, headache, weakness and altered mental status. He becme ill on August 26th and was hospitalized that day. He was discharged on September 2th to rehabilitation where he is recovering.

The Nassau County Departments of Health and Public Works have intensified mosquito surveillance activities in the Rockville Centre area. They are inspecting for breeding sites and, when necessary, will apply larvicide.

At this time, Nassau County has no plans to spray for adult mosquitoes.

Commission of Health, David M. Ackman, MD, MPH said: "With the increase of West Nile virus throughout the country, it is not surprising to find cases in Nassau County. In 2005 Nassau County had 12 cases; in 2004 there were no cases. However, in 2003 there were a total of 17 cases". He urged the public to:

  • Empty standing water from old tires, garbage cans, or any object that can hold water.
  • Make sure roof gutters drain properly and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
  • Keep swimming pools chlorinated and their covers free of stagnant water
  • Change the water in birdbaths every two or three days
  • Keep windows and door screens in good repair
  • Consider wearing long sleeves, pants, socks and mosquito repellent (according to directions) where mosquitoes are active, especially in the late afternoon and from dusk to dawn.

Please continue to report dead birds to the New York State Hotline toll free number at 1-866-537-2473 on Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or to the Department of Health Monday through Friday, between 7:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at (516) 572-1211. Most of the reported birds will not be collected.

To report  a mosquito problem, call the Department of Public Works Mosquito Control at 572-1166  weekdays from 7:45a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Residents can hear the latest information about West Nile virus by dialing 571-2500.  The information is available 24 hours a day.  In addition, West Nile information may be found on the County website at www.nassaucountyny.gov/health.

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