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Two samples test positive for West Nile in Aquebogue

TIM KELLY PHOTO | West Nile Virus was found in two samples of Culex pipiens-restuans.

Suffolk County health officials announced Monday that 12 mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus, including two in Aquebogue.

Positive samples, collected between July 16 and July 17 and all of Culex pipiens-restuans, also came from mosquito traps in Huntington, Greenlawn, Northport, East Northport, Nesconset, Holtsville, Selden and Farmingville.

Health officials do not disclose exactly where the traps are located.

To date, 16 mosquito samples and two birds have tested positive for the virus. No humans or horses have tested positive for the virus in Suffolk County this year, officials said.

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in a mosquito pool indicates that the virus is actively circulating within the mosquito population,” said James Tomarken, the Suffolk County Health and Human Services commissioner. “While there is no cause for alarm, we urge residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to contain the spread of the virus, which can be debilitating to humans.”

Residents can reduce the mosquito population around their homes by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, officials said.

Dead birds found on area properties may indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. To report dead birds, call the West Nile virus hotline in Suffolk County at (631) 787-2200 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call (631) 854-0333.

To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call vector control at (631) 852-4270.

For further information on mosquitos and mosquito-borne diseases, visit the Department of Health Services website and look under “Seasonal Trends.”

Related: Tips to help prevent the spread of West Nile virus