More mosquito spraying set for Fire Island

As part of the county's ongoing mosquito control efforts, the Suffolk County public works department is planning to spray streets in Davis Park and Point O'Woods on Fire Island from 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, weather permitting, health officials said.

Chances of experiencing health effects from the spraying of the pesticide Anvil "are quite low," according to a news release issued Monday by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. Still, people, especially children and pregnant women, are advised to take common-sense steps to avoid exposure by remaining indoors or avoiding the treated area during and for 30 minutes after spraying, officials said.

People become infected with West Nile virus through the bite of an infected mosquito, which is why health officials also advise eliminating stagnant water around homes where mosquitoes breed.

So far this year, 30 mosquito samples and six birds found in Suffolk County have tested positive for West Nile virus, the health department said Friday.

Other steps people can take to avoid exposure to the spray include closing windows, doors and vents to air conditioners..

For further information call the Suffolk County Division of Vector Control at 631-852-4270, the county's hotline at 631-852-4939 or check the "vector control" section of the health department's website at suffolkcountyny.gov/health.