West Nile Virus Infects 4 People In NYC: Dept. Of Health

NEW YORK CITY — West Nile Virus has been detected in four New Yorkers, according to the city's health department.

It's the first time the virus has been detected in humans this year. This announcement comes after the virus was found in mosquitoes in all five boroughs in the city in July, health officials said.

The four people were detected with West Nile virus since late July and reside in Queens and Manhattan. In addition, the virus was detected in blood donations from three people who reside in Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan. Two other possible cases are under investigation in the Bronx, officials said.

As of Aug. 16, there were 1,286 positive pools across the five boroughs this year, compared to 569 at the same time last year, officials said.

Over the past decade, an average of 17 people have been diagnosed with the disease per year in New York City.

The Health Department is actively working to prevent West Nile through public education, treating marshy areas and spraying for mosquitoes,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “We all have a role to play to protect ourselves and each other. Using an EPA-registered insect repellent is one very important tool, especially when outside at dusk and dawn, when the types of mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active. You can also stop mosquitoes from laying eggs and reproducing in the water by emptying outdoor containers that hold water or calling 311 if you see standing water that you cannot empty.”

West Nile virus infections could lead to symptoms like high fever, headaches, and neck stiffness. In extreme cases, people can experience vision loss or paralysis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using mosquito repellent, wearing shoes, long socks and clothing.

West Nile typically peaks during August and September, officials said.