Aquebogue sample tests positive for West Nile

Suffolk County health officials announced Friday that 17 more mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus, including one in Aquebogue.

Positive samples, collected between July 30, also came from mosquito traps in Nesconset, Port Jefferson Station and elsewhere in western Suffolk County.

Health officials do not disclose exactly where the traps are located.

To date, 107 mosquito samples and four birds have tested positive for the virus. No humans or horses have tested positive for the virus in Suffolk County this year, officials said.

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in a mosquito pool indicates that the virus is actively circulating within the mosquito population,” says James Tomarken, the Suffolk County Health and Human Services commissioner. “While there is no cause for alarm, we urge residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to contain the spread of the virus, which can be debilitating to humans.”

Residents can reduce the mosquito population around their homes by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, officials say.

Dead birds found on area properties may indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. To report dead birds, call the West Nile virus hotline in Suffolk County at (631) 787-2200 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call (631) 854-0333.

To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call vector control at (631) 852-4270.

For further information on mosquitos and mosquito-borne diseases, visit the Department of Health Services website and look under “Seasonal Trends.”

Related: Tips to help prevent the spread of West Nile virus