Suffolk County reports 139 West Nile'positive mosquito samples this season; officials urge precautions

Suffolk County health officials have detected 139 West Nile'positive mosquito samples so far this season, the report said, along with three samples positive for the less common Jamestown Canyon virus.

The infected mosquitoes were gathered during recent sampling in Bridgehampton, Shelter Island, Bayshore, Lyndenhurst, Copac, Setauket, Rocky Point and Fire Island. "Health officials urge everyone to take precautions, especially adults aged 50 and older or those with compromised immune systems," the broadcast advised, recommending use of repellant, covering up outdoors, and draining standing water.

While most people infected with West Nile experience mild or no symptoms, the segment cautioned the virus can trigger severe illness in rare cases, including high fever and neurological complications. County health officials provided the guidance but the report did not list planned additional control measures or scheduled spraying in specific neighborhoods.