The Cornell Cooperative Extension in Plainview, in conjunction with the Nassau County Department of Health, recently hosted an informational workshop on the West Nile Virus and mosquito control in an attempt to ease concerns and to prevent future outbreaks.

In a press release announcing the workshop, Nassau County Legislature Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs said, "Since the discovery of West Nile virus in the New York metropolitan area several years ago, residents have worked to mitigate its impact by becoming knowledgeable in how to combat this problem. It is important for everyone to remain informed with the latest information on how to reduce the exposure to the virus."

Among the topics covered were ways of spotting if an individual has been infected, ways to prevent being bitten, and proactive prevention. "One of the problems about the West Nile Virus is that people are losing interest in it," said Tamson Yeh, Cornell Cooperative Extension educator. "This year, the same conditions apply and we estimate that more mosquitoes will be breeding."

Birds, specifically from the crow family, are the main carriers of this disease although birds cannot transmit the virus directly to humans. Mosquitoes act as the middleman first biting the birds and then infecting humans. Once infected, it takes approximately 5-15 days for a victim to show symptoms.

"This virus acts like the flu or that never-ending headache," Yeh said. "Most people just take antibiotics and think it will go away. However, antibiotics treat only bacteria and do nothing against viruses."

People over the age of 50 and young children are most at risk to develop severe illness. Those who are infected are encouraged to seek medical attention as soon as possible, but the best way to end the illness is to stop it before it starts.

"Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water," Yeh said. "Take a walk around the house to spot these areas. Clogged gutters and unused kiddie pools are prime locations for mosquitoes to breed."

According to Yeh, other key areas are dumpsters, garbage cans, barbecue grills and birdbaths.

"The key to preventing mosquitoes is to take care of these areas before breeding season," Yeh said. "Mosquitoes do not have the virus at the beginning of the season. Only after the first cycle of mating do they become carriers."

The West Nile virus has become a substantial concern to Long Islanders over the last several summers. In order to help ease concerns and prevent future infections, the Cornell Cooperative Extension will hold another free informational workshop on August 28 from 10 a.m. - noon at the Cornell Cooperative Extension office, which is located at 1425 Old Country Road in Plainview. Please call 454-0900 ext. 248 for more information or to reserve a place.