July 16, 2008

West Nile Virus Update for July 16, 2008
First Positive Mosquito Pool

The New York State Department of Health reported today on the first isolation of West Nile virus (WNV) from a mosquito pool in Nassau County, New York. The sample was collected on July 2, 2008 in Bethpage.

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

The Department of Public Works (DPW), Mosquito Control unit is conducting additional surveillance in those areas where positive pools of mosquitoes have been found by inspecting breeding sites, and when necessary, applying larvicide.

The Health Department will continue mosquito surveillance at 42 trap sites located throughout the county.

To report a mosquito problem, please phone DPW Mosquito Control at (516) 572-1166, Monday through Friday from 7:45AM to 3:30PM.

To report a dead bird, please phone either the toll-free state hot line at 1-866-537-2473, Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM until 4:30 PM or the Nassau County Health Department at 572-1211, Monday through Friday from 7:45AM to 3:30PM. Be advised that most of the reported birds will not be collected.