First West Nile Virus Sample Detected In Suffolk County For 2023

WEST BABYLON, NY — The first positive sample of West Nile virus has been detected in Suffolk County this year.

The sample — known as a Culex pipiens-restuans — was collected on June 27 from West Babylon, the Suffolk County Department of Health announced.

In 2022, 11 people were reported to have contracted West Nile virus, and 96 mosquito samples tested positive, according to department data.

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in mosquito samples indicates the presence of West Nile virus in the area,” said Dr. Pigott. “While there is no cause for alarm, we advise residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to reduce exposure to West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.”

West Nile virus, first detected in birds and mosquito samples in Suffolk County in 1999 and again each year thereafter, is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.

The number of mosquitoes found each year varies, ranging from 8 positive mosquito samples and no human cases in 2004 to 210 positive mosquito samples and 14 human cases in 2012.

Nine Suffolk County residents have died from West Nile virus since 2000.

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. The symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

Individuals — especially those 50 years of age or older, or those with compromised immune systems, who are most at risk — are urged to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.