Fourth human case of West Nile virus reported in Suffolk

Suffolk County reported its fourth human case of West Nile virus this year, officials said Wednesday.

The individual, an unidentified Brookhaven Town resident over 50, remains hospitalized after first experiencing symptoms in late August.

West Nile virus can cause a range of symptoms from mild illness to fever, body aches and swollen lymph glands. In more rare but severe cases, people can develop encephalitis and meningitis, swelling in the brain and inflammation of the spinal cord.

People over 50 are at most risk for severe illness.

The virus is transmitted to people by infected mosquitoes. Cases usually appear in August and September toward the end of the mosquito season.

The Suffolk County Health Department reported other cases in Brookhaven and Islip towns since mid August. Data from the state Health Department shows five human cases in Nassau County and 45 across the state as of Sept. 19.

Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 813 human cases across 43 states.

Nassau and Suffolk counties conduct surveillance throughout the season by placing traps in various locations and testing those mosquitoes for different pathogens that can cause disease in humans. State data shows 47 pools of West Nile-infected mosquitoes were found in Nassau County and 139 in Suffolk so far this year.

Experts said the best way to avoid West Nile virus is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. They suggest people wear insect repellent with DEET when they venture outside and to wear long sleeves and long pants if possible. Remove standing water around the house since it can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

By Lisa L. Colangelo

lisa.colangelo@newsday.com@lisalcolangelo

Lisa joined Newsday as a staff writer in 2019. She previously worked at amNewYork, the New York Daily News and the Asbury Park Press covering politics, government and general assignment.