HAUPPAUGE - Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Services Dr. Humayun Chaudhry announced the first suspected human case of West Nile virus in Suffolk County this year. This is the first human case found in the county since 2006.

A nine-year-old boy from Easthampton developed signs and symptoms of a viral illness on August 1 and was taken to Southampton Hospital on August 3 by his family.

He had a fever of 104 degrees and complaints of visual hallucinations, vomiting, headache and photophobia (sensitivity to light). A spinal tap was performed and blood work was taken at the hospital. The spinal tap came back negative and he left the hospital the same day with the diagnosis of a presumed viral illness.  He was seen that same day by his private pediatrician, under whose care his clinical symptoms gradually improved enough for him to go on a trip overseas on August 7. 

On August 13 the Suffolk County Department of Health Services was notified that the blood work that had been taken earlier had returned positive for a screening test for West Nile virus.  The case will not be confirmed for another two weeks when follow up tests are completed. The child is still out of the country, however, he is reported to be feeling better and expected back at the end of the month.

“There is no public health risk to anyone who has come into contact with the child,” said Dr. Chaudhry. “While West Nile virus is not contagious from person to person, this is certainly a very good reminder to everyone in Suffolk County to take necessary precautions to limit the chances of getting bit by a mosquito.” 

Suffolk County will be placing mosquito traps in the vicinity of the victim’s home for enhanced mosquito surveillance.  Dr. Chaudhry said it was important for everyone to help reduce mosquito breeding in areas around your home and property to prevent the transmission of West Nile virus to people. After each rainfall, remember to eliminate standing water in flower pots, clogged gutters, recycle bins, birdbaths, swimming pool and hot tub covers.  Using insect repellants that contain DEET, avoiding the hours from dusk to dawn (when most mosquitoes are active), and wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoor activity between dusk and dawn is unavoidable, are also steps everyone can take to stay healthy this summer. Mosquito season lasts from June 1 through November 1.