August 27, 2007

West Nile Virus Detections Continue to be Identified in Nassau County

First Two Birds and an Additional Mosquito Pool Found

The New York State Department of Health has reported on the isolation of West Nile virus (WNV) from an additional mosquito pool in Nassau County, New York. Also, two birds have been identified as positive for the disease. This brings the total to 14 mosquito pools and two birds positive for WNV in Nassau County.

The latest mosquito sample was collected August 15th in Farmingdale.  An American Crow was found in Levittown on August 15th and a Blue Jay in Syosset on August 20th.  Prior positive mosquito pools were found in Bayville, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Jericho, Kings Point, Roosevelt, Upper Brookville, Valley Stream, Wantagh, West Hempstead, Westbury and Woodbury. In all cases, the virus was identified in a sample of Culex pipiens-restuans mosquito, a species which primarily bites birds.

To date, no humans or horses have tested positive for West Nile virus in Nassau County.

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

The Departments of Health and Public Works will continue their mosquito control efforts by inspecting breeding sites and, when necessary, applying larvicide. Mosquito surveillance will continue at 42 trap sites located throughout the county and will be intensified in the Farmingdale area. The county will continue aerial applications of larvicide in the non-populated areas of the south shore salt marshes as needed.  

Because West Nile virus is present throughout New York State and beyond, and the primary carrier of WNV in Nassau County is the Culex pipiens-restuans or “house mosquito” which flies approximately 200 feet from its breeding site, residents are urged to continue to take the following precautions for safety and protection:

• Remove or empty standing water from old tires, garbage cans, pails, 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.
• Install window and door screens and keep them in good repair.
• Consider wearing long sleeves, pants, socks and mosquito repellent (according to directions) when outdoors where mosquitoes are active, especially in the late afternoon and from dusk to dawn.