New York City Faces Rising Concern Over West Nile Virus
New York City is on high alert as the deadly West Nile virus has been detected for the first time this year, with four residents already falling ill. The New York City Department of Health announced on Monday that a mosquito pool in all five boroughs of the city tested positive for the virus, marking the first detection of West Nile in 2024.
Confirmed cases and hospitalizations
Since late July, four individuals from Manhattan and Queens have contracted the virus. Among them, one person was diagnosed with fever, while the other three required hospitalization. Additionally, the virus was discovered in blood donations from three people—one each in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan.
The health department is also investigating reports of two other potential cases in the Bronx.
Rising numbers compared to last year
Data from the health department shows that reports of the West Nile virus throughout New York City have more than doubled compared to the same period last year. As of August 16, there have been 1,286 positive mosquito pools in the city, significantly surpassing the 569 detected at this time last year.
What is West Nile virus? Symptoms and prevention
West Nile virus is the predominant mosquito-borne disease, primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus is most prevalent during the mosquito season, which begins in the summer and extends into the fall.
Currently, there are no vaccines or treatments available for West Nile virus in humans. Fortunately, the majority of people infected with the virus do not experience any symptoms. Approximately 1 in 5 infected individuals develop a fever and other symptoms, while about 1 in 150 cases result in serious, sometimes fatal, illness. To lower your risk of contracting the West Nile virus, take steps to prevent mosquito bites.