West Nile Sample Found In Aquebogue

A sample of West Nile virus has been found in Aquebogue, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services said on Friday.

The mosquito sample with the most recent finding was collected between Aug. 21 and 22. To date across the county, 199 mosquito samples and 37 birds have tested positive for West Nile.

As previously reported, two human cases of West Nile virus have been diagnosed in Suffolk this year. Both were hospitalized and have recovered and been released from the hospital. 

Most recently, Suffolk County Health Services (SCDHS) Commissioner James L. Tomarken announced that seven additional mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus. The mosquito samples were from locations in Aquebogue, Holtsville, Northport, South Huntington, West Babylon and Dix Hills.  

Tomarken said residents can reduce the mosquito population around homes by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. The county offers an informative bulletin entitled “Mosquitoes and Mosquito-borne Illnesses,” which contains tips on personal protection and repellents.

After of Aug. 31, the Department of Health Services is no longer collecting and testing dead birds for West Nile virus.  For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-854-0333 during normal business hours.

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