Suffolk County health officials reported the county’s first West Nile virus-positive mosquito sample of the year on Thursday, as federal health officials warn that West Nile activity is off to an unusually early start in parts of the country.
The mosquito sample, identified as Culex pipiens-restuans, was collected June 24 in Dix Hills, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. It was one of 100 samples tested during the weeklong period. So far this year, the county has tested 359 mosquito samples for West Nile virus.
The first positive mosquito sample in Suffolk County this year was collected one week earlier than last year’s first positive sample, which was collected July 1, 2025, in Nesconset.
The county also reported that one Aedes aurifer mosquito sample collected June 17 in Southold tested positive for Jamestown Canyon virus. In addition, two dead crows found June 24 in Ronkonkoma tested positive for West Nile virus.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus experience mild or no symptoms, but some can develop serious illness, including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, confusion, vision loss, muscle weakness, paralysis and, in rare cases, death.
People age 50 and older and those with compromised immune systems are urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said West Nile virus activity typically occurs during the summer and fall, but the agency recently urged people to take precautions as the 2026 season begins with an unusually early and strong start in parts of the United States.
Residents can reduce mosquito exposure by eliminating standing water around their homes, making sure window and door screens are intact, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors and using insect repellent.
Dead birds can indicate the presence of West Nile virus. Residents who find a dead bird on their property can report it to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services Bureau of Public Health Protection at 631-852-5999 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The county encourages residents to submit a photo of the bird.
Mosquito problems can be reported to the Suffolk County Department of Public Works Division of Vector Control at 631-852-4270.
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