Birds Test Positive for West Nile Virus

James L. Tomarken, MD, MSW, MPH, MBA, FRCPC, FACP, Commissioner of the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, announced today that four crows and one fish crow collected between July 16^th and July 27^th have tested positive for West Nile virus.  The birds were collected in West Islip (2), Bay Shore, Huntington and Medford.

Residents are encouraged to report sightings of dead birds that may have been infected with the virus to the Department of Health Services Public Health Hotline at 631-787-2200 from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday.

If a bird is not collected for testing residents should use a shovel or wear gloves and double bag the dead bird and dispose of it in the trash or bury it.  There is no evidence that a bird or its remains can infect humans.

West Vile virus, first detected in Suffolk County in 1999 and again each year thereafter, is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.  The virus can cause serious illness and in some cases death.

Dr. Tomarken asks that residents continue to be vigilant about removing standing water on their property and thereby reducing breeding areas for mosquitoes.  Try to avoid being bitten when outside, especially in the early morning and at dusk when mosquitoes are most active.  Chemical repellents are effective at reducing bites from mosquitoes.  Manufacturers’ instructions should be followed to ensure proper application.

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. 

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

For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-853-3055.

For further information on West Nile virus, visit the Department of Health Services’ website at www.suffolkcountyny.gov/health.