HAUPPAUGE – Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Services Dr. James. Tomarken, said that two new human cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed by New York State. Both are from the Town of Babylon.

The two cases are in addition to the year’s first human case confirmed by the state earlier this month. In that first case, a man from the Town of Huntington between the ages of 70 and 80 became ill on July 19, 2010. He is currently being cared for at an area hospital.

A female between the ages of 70 and 80 became ill on August 6. Her symptoms were fever, weakness and mental status changes. She is currently being cared for at an area hospital.

A female between the ages of 75 and 85 became ill on July 16. Her symptoms were dizziness, fever, nausea, vomiting, rash. She was hospitalized and is currently recovering in a physical rehabilitation center.

“West Nile virus is not contagious so there is no public health risk to anyone who has come into contact with the three individuals,” said Dr. Tomarken. “However, this is certainly a very good reminder to everyone in Suffolk County to take necessary precautions to limit the chances of getting bitten by a mosquito.” 

Suffolk County has already treated both areas for mosquitoes and will conduct enhanced mosquito surveillance in both towns.

Dr. Tomarken said it was important for residents to reduce mosquito breeding in areas around their homes 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, avoiding the hours from dusk to dawn (when most mosquitoes are active), and wearing long sleeves and long 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.

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