A 49-year-old Suffolk County woman has tested positive for West Nile virus based on preliminary laboratory findings, according to State Health Commissioner Antonia C. Novello. This is the first known human case of West Nile virus to occur this year in New York State outside of the New York City.

The presumptive diagnosis of West Nile virus is based on preliminary screening tests conducted by the State Health Department's Wadsworth Center laboratories and the patient's clinical symptoms. Confirmatory testing also will be performed.

"This latest human case of West Nile virus reinforces the urgency of our repeated calls for people to protect themselves against mosquito bites and to continue to eliminate standing water around their properties where mosquitoes breed," Dr. Novello said. "Mosquito precautions are especially important for individuals age 50 or older who are most likely to suffer serious complications from West Nile virus; however, all New Yorkers should take steps to reduce their risk."

To prevent mosquito bites:
•Minimize time spent outdoors when mosquitoes are most active and feeding, such as between dusk and dawn.
•Wear long pants, shirts with long sleeves and socks to reduce the amount of exposed skin.
•Consider applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET to clothing and any exposed skin spending time outdoors; however always use DEET products carefully, especially with children. Use only the amount and concentrations necessary for the particular situation and be aware of the possible adverse health effects.
•Consider purchasing special clothing made of a mosquito netting material for long periods of outdoor activity.

So far this year, four human cases of West Nile virus have occurred in New York State: two in Staten Island, one in Queens and the latest case, in Nesconset, Suffolk County. The patient began experiencing symptoms including headache, fever, stiff neck and a rash on August 23 and was hospitalized on August 27. She has since been discharged and is recovering.