Horse in Water Mill Dies of West Nile Virus

A horse stabled in Water Mill has died of the West Nile virus, Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken announced Friday evening. 

The 5-year-old mare was seen by a veterinarian on Aug. 20 and died the following day, the Health Department said, adding the mare had not been immunized. 

“Experimental studies have concluded that horses are dead-end hosts for West Nile virus, so this finding does not necessarily indicate an increased human risk for West Nile virus,” Dr. Tomarken said. “Health Department staff is monitoring the Water Mill area for mosquito activity and will report any finding of positive results for West Nile virus."

The Health Department said horse owners should vaccinate horses for West Nile virus and eastern equine encephalitis virus, an infection that is often fatal. Other recommendations include stabling horses inside from dusk to dawn, which are feeding times for mosquitoes, and using insecticide and repellents recommended by veterinarians. The statement also suggested that fly sheets be used when horses are turned out in paddocks.

The announcement comes as four more mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus on Aug. 21 and Aug. 23. The mosquitoes were found in Lindenhurst, Rocky Point, Aquebogue, and Jamesport. In total this summer, the county has reported 93 mosquito samples, and nine birds have tested positive for West Nile virus, in addition to the horse. Two of the mosquitos that tested positive were found in East Hampton, while one was found in Bridgehampton.

There are no human cases of West Nile virus in Suffolk County. The virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. 

Dead birds may indicate the presence of West Nile virus. To report dead birds, the Public Health Information Line in Suffolk County can be called at 631-852-5999 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Residents are encouraged to take a photograph of any bird in question.

To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.