News Release

West Nile Virus Detected at Watch Hill on September 3, 2024

Date: September 18, 2024
Contact: Fire Island National Seashore

Patchogue, NY –  West Nile virus has been detected in mosquito samples taken on September 3 from a trap at Watch Hill. This is the fourth case at Watch Hill this year.

Watch Hill is a federal tract of land between Davis Park and the Fire Island Wilderness area. Mosquito traps are set by the seashore as part of its mosquito monitoring program. This program is a collaborative effort between the National Park Service and Suffolk County Department of Health Services – Arthropod-Borne Disease Laboratory that helps the park assess risk levels and select actions for public safety.  

The National Park Service, along with Suffolk County, will continue its weekly surveillance program to monitor the severity and extent of West Nile Virus within the boundaries of the seashore. Consistent with the seashore’s mosquito monitoring protocols, there will be increased surveillance at Watch Hill, where West Nile Virus was detected.

The National Park Service works closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Suffolk County Department of Health Services – Arthropod-Borne Disease Laboratory, Suffolk County Vector Control, and local Fire Island and Long Island municipalities to determine the best course of action to protect residents, visitors, and employees of the Seashore. The public will be notified 24 hours in advance of any spray event.  

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Visitors should take precautions to reduce exposure to the virus by avoiding areas with high densities of mosquitoes. If contact with mosquitoes is unavoidable, it is advisable to minimize outdoor activities when mosquitoes are active, wear protective clothing (long sleeved shirts, socks, and long pants) and use effective insect repellent, such as one containing at least 30% DEET. People most at risk of becoming ill are those over 60 years of age or whose health is impaired.   

West Nile Virus was first confirmed in New York State in 1999. For general information on West Nile Virus, please contact your local health department or the CDC, New York State, or Suffolk County WNV websites. If you have information or questions for the park, please  e-mail us.