Islip man tests positive for West Nile virus, first human case in New York State this year 

An Islip man has tested positive for West Nile virus, the first human case in the state this year, Suffolk County officials announced Wednesday.

The man, who was not identified but is over the age of 50, was hospitalized after experiencing symptoms on July 18, according to the Suffolk County Health Department. He was released in late July and is recovering at home.

West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is detected annually during the summer and fall, but most human cases are reported in August and September. So far, 103 cases have been reported nationally.

“This case has been confirmed very early in the season, and as there are still many weeks of mosquito activity left this season,” Suffolk Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott said in a statement. "We urge people older than 50 and others who are at higher risk of having severe symptoms to seek medical attention early if they experience any of the symptoms associated with West Nile virus."

Some, but not all, people who are bitten by an infected mosquito will experience symptoms including fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash. It can be fatal.

People 50 years of age and older, as well as those with chronic illnesses and compromised immune systems, are at the highest risk of becoming severely ill after contracting the virus.

Mosquitoes positive for West Nile virus have been found in both Nassau and Suffolk counties this summer.

There were five human cases of the virus reported in Suffolk County in 2023. State officials said there have been 115 humans cases and eight deaths in New York, excluding New York City, since 2020.

The county has been monitoring West Nile virus this season by testing mosquito traps set up in various towns. As of Aug. 1, 92 mosquito samples and three birds tested positive for West Nile virus, Suffolk health officials said.

Nassau County health officials reported 42 positive West Nile virus pools so far this year.

In the most serious cases, West Nile encephalitis or meningitis can be marked by neck stiffness, high fever, muscle weakness, disorientation or seizures.

People are advised to protect themselves against mosquito bites by using bug repellent and wearing protective clothes. They are also advised to empty standing water around their homes which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

West Nile virus was first discovered in the United States in 1999 with an outbreak in Queens. As of 2023, there have been 59,141 cases and 2,958 deaths due to the virus.

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.