Human West Nile Case Confirmed in Babylon Town

A new case of West Nile Virus has been confirmed today by Suffolk County Department of Health Services - this time, in the Town of Babylon.

The county agency received word from the the New York State laboratory, according to SCDHS Commissioner James L. Tomarken, MD, in a statement.

County officials said, "An adult from the Town of Babylon who is older than the age of 55 was hospitalized with abdominal pain, malaise, confusion and fever that began in September. The individual has recovered."

This case is the fourth confirmed case of West Nile in Suffolk County this year.

Last month the department reported on a confirmed case of the virus in a person from the Town of Islip who was hospitalized in August with nausea, vomiting, weakness and dizziness.

The individual, who is younger than 55 years of age, has recovered, the SCDHS said.

Two people from the Town of Huntington were also confirmed to have contracted West Nile Virus - one older than 55 years of age and one younger than 55. Both experienced symptoms of the virus, but neither individual was hospitalized. Both have fully recovered, as well, according to health officials.

Privacy laws prohibit health officials from divulging any additional information about the individuals, noted the SCDHS.

• For medical questions related to West Nile virus, residents could call the agency at 631-853-3055.
• To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
• To report dead birds call the at 631-787-2200, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.
• For more information about , visit the SCDHS website or the Centers for Disease Control website.