The New York State Department of Health reported today on the first isolation of West Nile virus (WNV) in Nassau County, New York. The virus was identified in two crows that were found dead on May 27th in Woodbury and May 28th in Plainview.

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

"The presence of the West Nile virus in birds is not unexpected," said Dr. David Ackman, Nassau County Commissioner of Health. "We hope this finding serves to add urgency to our message of eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home and on private property, especially in view of the recent heavy rains. Nevertheless, we believe the risk of infection for Nassau residents remains quite low."

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. The County will continue the routine aerial applications of larvicide in the non-populated areas in the salt marshes off Jones Beach.

To date, 41 mosquito pools submitted for testing to the New York State laboratory have tested negative for West Nile virus including those in the Woodbury and Plainview areas.

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, or "house mosquito" which flies approximately 200 feet from its breeding site, residents are urged to continue to take these 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.

The public is encouraged to report dead crows to the Department of Health's hotline Monday through Friday, between 7:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at (516) 571-8707. Additional West Nile virus information may be found via the County website at www.NassauCountyNY.gov/health.