The Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS) has announced the discovery of two more positive samples of West Nile virus in Lindenhurst.
According to County officials, the samples were collected on August 16, and are among 29 additional positive West Nile tests reported in 20 communities - including Lindy - across Suffolk.
Increase in West Nile
So far this year 175 mosquito samples and 21 birds have tested positive for the virus, in addition to and another one being investigated as probable for the virus (no equine cases have been reported so far), Suffolk health officials said.
Of those 175 samples that span the County, now has six to date, and nearby now has . There were also two additional WNV-positive samples found in Copiague and in Bay Shore to date.
This marks a in the amount of mosquito samples testing positive this year for West Nile, officials said.
“Though the number of mosquitoes testing positive is historically high for this time of year, we cannot predict if the numbers will continue to be high,” said Dr. James L. Tomarken, commissioner of the SCDHS.
"There are many factors, such as weather, that affect mosquito population and activity," he said.
County Response
In response the County has been steadily spraying at Fire Island, as well as begun spraying all around the County, including in , West Babylon, Amityville and Copiague area on and in an area stretching from West Babylon and to West Bay Shore on .
The County has also treated Oak Beach on and Cedar Beach on , as well as salt marshes at the beaches all around Suffolk, including those at the Town beaches on and .
What Residents Can Do
Tomarken also said residents could reduce the mosquito population around their homes by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.
“Given the numbers are high, and we're finding samples in virtually all parts of the County, we ask residents be especially vigilant about reducing their exposure to mosquitoes whenever they can,” he added.
In addition, the County offers a bulletin entitled Mosquitoes and Mosquito-Borne Illnesses, which contains tips on personal protection and repellents.
Dead birds found on area properties might indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. To report dead birds call the West Nile virus in Suffolk at 631-787-2200 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-853-3055.
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