Mineola, NY – Nassau County Department of Health has received notification of one mosquito pool sample that has tested positive for West Nile, the first of the year. The positive pool was collected on June 29th in Woodbury. “Nassau County Department of Health continues to work with Nassau County Department of Public Works and New York State Department of Health to monitor for the presence of mosquitos carrying disease in our county,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman. “While thus far there have been no human cases of West Nile Virus reported in Nassau County this year, we want to remind and encourage residents to take the necessary precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitos, as well as reduce exposure to West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne illness.”
Prevention of mosquito bites is the most important way to reduce your risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Take the following steps to protect yourself:
- Cover your skin as completely as possible when outside if mosquitoes are present and active. Wear long sleeves, pants and socks.
- Use EPA-approved insect repellent on exposed skin and follow label directions.
- Make sure there are screens in your home's windows and doors. Make sure the screens are free of rips, tears and holes.
- Eliminate all standing water on around your home and property where mosquitoes can breed.