Community Corner

West Nile Found in Mosquitoes

Samples yield virus in Huntington-Northport area.

The West Nile virus has been found in mosquito samples in Huntington, Northport and East Northport, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services said Friday.

Two samples taken in East Northport and another one each from Northport and Huntington, were positive, the department said. The sampling was done July 9.

There is no sign of human infection, the department said.

West Nile virus is also transmitted to humans and some animals through the bite of an infected mosquito, the state Department of Health noted.  West Nile virus was first found in New York State in 1999. Since 2000, 490 human cases and 37 deaths of West Nile virus have been recorded around the state.

The state health department recommended these steps to avoid mosquito bites:

  • Cover your skin as completely as possible when outside when mosquitoes are present and active. Wear long sleeves, pants and socks.
  • Use 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.


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