West Nile Virus Found In Goshen, NY Mosquitoes: Health Department

GOSHEN, NY — Local mosquitoes have tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to the Orange County Department of Health.

The county has an ongoing mosquito surveillance program which tests for the virus.

“This is an important reminder that mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus are present in our region,” Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said, in an announcement Friday.

The virus can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from fever to headache, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it can lead to hospitalization and death, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The agency estimates about 1,200 people each year in the U.S. develop severe illness that affects the central nervous system and more than 120 people die due to the virus, according to the CDC website.

The Orange County health department recommends residents take steps to avoid the virus, such as wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellant, and addressing stagnant water on property.

Earlier this month, the department announced mosquitoes carrying the virus had been found in Greenwood Lake.