Just a few days ago, West Nile Virus was found in a mosquito pool on Long Island, Nassau County.
New York State Department of Health collected a sample on August 6th and confirmed that it was West Nile virus positive. The virus was found in a sample of Culex pipiens-restuans mosquitoes, which commonly bite birds.
Mary Ellen Laurian, spokeswoman for Nassau’s Department of Health did not seem at all worried but a bit surprised as she stated, “This year it’s a few weeks later than usual. Most of our positives show up in July, but I wouldn’t say this is unusual.”
West Nile virus came to Long Island in 1999 and is usually transmitted through mosquito bites. The virus should be taken seriously as it can cause severe illness and in many cases deaths. However, no worries, as health officials are working diligently to thwart the spread of the virus.
The West Nile virus is generally found in standing water. Just last year, Nassau County discovered 43 positive West Nile virus pools around this time. And in order to combat the situation, the department sprayed chemicals which targeted adult mosquitoes around Nassau county.
Till this date, no humans, birds or horses have tested positive for the virus in Nassau but, the department is maintaining a strict mosquito surveillance through “”inspecting breeding sites and, when necessary, applying larvicide,” at the 42 trap sites throughout the county.”
Although it is not an urgent matter, health officials are urging residents to take precautionary measures to prevent mosquito bites.
Preventive Measures:
- Eliminate standing water
- Keep swimming pools chlorinated
- Change water in birdbaths every two or three days
- Try wearing light colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants from dusk to dawn
- Drain roof gutters Install window screens
- Keep children’s wading pools empty, especially when not in use
- Use insect repellent, which contains DEET when outdoors
- Vaccinate horses to protect them from West Nile Virus and Western Equine Encephalitis
