Thus far, no humans have tested positive for West Nile in Nassau County. There are no plans to spray for adult mosquitoes at this time, but inspections of mosquito breeding sites will continue to be conducted by the departments of health and public works. Mosquito surveillance will intensify in the Valley Stream area, while the aerial application of larvicide will continue in the salt marshes of Jones Beach.
"The presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes is not unexpected," said Dr. David Ackman, Nassau County Commissioner of Health. "We hope this finding serves to add urgency to our message of eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home and on private property, especially in view of the recent heavy rains. Nevertheless, we believe the risk of infection for Nassau residents remains quite low."
Because West Nile is present throughout New York state and beyond, and the primary carriers of West Nile in Nassau County are "house mosquitoes," which fly approximately 200 feet from its breeding site, residents are urged to continue to take these precautions for safety and protection:
Remove or empty standing water from old tires, garbage cans, pails, or any object that can hold water.
Make sure roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.Keep swimming pools chlorinated and their covers free of stagnant water.
Change the water in birdbaths every two or three days.Install window and door screens and keep them in good repair.
Consider wearing long sleeves, pants, socks and mosquito repellent (according to directions) when outdoors where mosquitoes are active, especially in the late afternoon and from dusk to dawn.
The public is encouraged to report dead crows either to the toll free state hotline at (866) 537-2473, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or to the Department of Health's hotline at (516) 571-8707, Monday through Friday, between 7:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Be advised that most of the reported birds will not be collected. Additional West Nile virus information may be found via the county website at www.co.nassau.ny.us/health.
