New York City reported its first human case of West Nile virus this year as mosquito activity reaches its seasonal peak. The New York City Health Department said Aug. 19 that the resident contracted the virus after spending time outdoors in both the city and locations outside it.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, and cannot be spread from person to person.
"With mosquito season in full swing, we’re encouraging New Yorkers to take extra precautions to minimize the risk of mosquito bites,” said NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin.
To protect themselves, city residents should wear insect repellent, cover up during dawn and dusk and get rid of standing water around their homes.
"All New Yorkers should take these precautions seriously, especially older New Yorkers and those with a weakened immune system," Martin said.
The case comes as the Health Department has detected more than 1,000 West Nile virus-positive mosquito pools across the five boroughs this year. The first positive pools were detected June 16, and the city has expanded mosquito surveillance and control efforts as activity has increased.
The city has conducted targeted mosquito-control operations in neighborhoods with positive mosquito pools, including recent operations in Brooklyn. The treatments typically reduce adult mosquito populations by about 70 % and positive pools by more than 85 %.
Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. Some may experience fever, headache, muscle aches, rash and fatigue. About 1 in 150 infected people develop a serious illness affecting the brain or spinal cord. People 60 and older and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 222 human West Nile virus cases nationwide as of Aug. 18, primarily in Arizona, Texas and California. The Health Department will continue mosquito surveillance and targeted control operations through the season.
