Nassau targets mosquitoes after Irene

Nassau County said Wednesday it is planning additional mosquito control measures to combat the spread of West Nile virus after Tropical Storm Irene.

The county will spray to eliminate viral activity and decrease the mosquito population but also asked that residents remove standing water on their properties to help eliminate mosquito breeding and prevent the spread of the mosquito-borne disease.

The spraying timeline has not been determined. This season, 22 mosquito pools and one person have tested positive for the virus in Nassau County, the release said.

Suffolk County reported its first human case of West Nile virus this year on Aug. 18. The Huntington resident has since recovered. In addition to spraying, the Department of Public Works will continue to inspect breeding sites and, when necessary, apply larvicide. The Department of Health will continue mosquito surveillance at 42 trap sites in the county, the release said.

"As a result of large amounts of water that have occurred from ... Irene, residents are urged to remove any standing water on their property where mosquitoes can breed," the release said.

Health officials offered tips for residents, including making sure roof gutters drain properly, keeping swimming pools, ponds and decorative water features chlorinated and clean, and installing or repairing screens to windows and doors.

To report mosquito activity, stagnant water or drainage problems, call 516-571-6900. Information on West Nile virus is available at nassaucountyny.gov/agen cies/Health/westnile.html.

Suffolk County also said Wednesday it would be treating the Fire Island communities of Davis Park, Point O'Woods, Ocean Bay Park, Fire Island Pines, Atlantique and Summer Club from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday.

Suffolk's spraying hotline is 631-852-4939. Information also is at co.suffolk.ny.us/health/vectorcontrol.html.