Health

Mosquito sample in Jamesport tests positive for West Nile virus

A mosquito sample collected in Jamesport tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the Suffolk County Health Department. It was one of three samples collected Sept. 13 to test positive for the virus. The other locations were Shelter Island and Amityville.

To date, 135 mosquito samples have tested posted for the virus and there have been three human cases, according to the health department. One horse and 10 birds have also tested positive for the virus this year.

Other samples taken in August in Jamesport, Southold and Aquebogue also tested positive.

“Though the temperatures are getting cooler, mosquitoes may still be active for several more weeks this year,” said Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken. “We advise residents to continue to do their best to reduce exposure to West Nile virus.”

West Nile virus was first detected in birds and mosquito samples in Suffolk County in 1999 and it has again each year. The virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.

Most people infected with West Nile virus will experience mild or no symptoms, but some can develop severe symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis, according to the Health Department.

Residents are advised to take steps to avoid mosquito bites, especially for people who are most at risk such as those 50 years of age or older, or those with compromised immune systems.

Read more about protecting against mosquitos here.

To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.