August 14, 2008

First Human Case of West Nile Virus in State and Nassau County

The Nassau County Department of Health is reporting the first confirmed case of West Nile virus in a Nassau County resident this year.  This is the first human case of West Nile virus in Nassau County and in New York State in 2008.

The individual is a 64-year-old man who resides in Uniondale. His symptoms include fever, headache, weakness and altered mental status.  He became ill on August 6th, was hospitalized on August 8th, and remains hospitalized.

Nassau County and New York State Departments of Health are also investigating a probable case of West Nile virus in a 52-year old woman who resides in Massapequa. Her symptoms included weakness, nausea, vomiting, rash, fever and diarrhea. She became ill on July 17th ,was hospitalized on July 22nd, sent to rehabilitation on August 7th and discharged  on August 14th.  She is currently recovering at home.

New York State Department of Health’s Wadsworth Laboratory will be conducting additional testing on both cases.

The Nassau County Departments of Health and Public Works have intensified mosquito surveillance activities in the Uniondale and Massapequa areas. 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.

In 2007 Nassau County had two cases; in 2006 there were five cases and in 2005 there were a total of 12 cases.  Commissioner of Health Dr. Maria Torroella Carney urges residents 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 window 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 at dawn and dusk.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outside, especially at dawn and dusk.

To report a mosquito problem, please 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 (516) 227-9700.  The information is available 24 hours a day.  In addition, West Nile information may be found on the Health Department website at: www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/health