West Nile Virus Arrives in New York

Main Category: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Article Date: 29 Jul 2005 - 17:00 PDT

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Three Mosquito Pools in the Bronx Test Positive for WNV; Two Manhattan Residents Have West Nile Fever; New Yorkers Aged 50 and Older Urged to Take Precautions -

The first signs of West Nile virus (WNV) in New York City during the 2005 mosquito season have been detected, health officials announced today. Three pools of mosquitoes collected in the Bronx have tested positive for WNV; the infected mosquitoes were identified in the neighborhoods of Eastchester, Woodlawn, and Baychester. The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has increased mosquito surveillance and larviciding in these areas; no spraying is planned at this time.

Additionally, two Manhattan residents - both males, ages 50 and 54 - have been preliminarily diagnosed with West Nile fever. Both patients have recent travel history outside the City and investigations are underway to better determine where they were infected. While they have exhibited symptoms of WNV infection (e.g., headache, fever, chills), neither of them were hospitalized and both are recovering. With the official arrival of the West Nile virus season, DOHMH Commissioner Thomas R. Frieden, MD, MPH reminded New Yorkers - particularly those over the age of 50 - to eliminate standing water, where mosquitoes can breed around the home, reduce exposure to mosquitoes, and use insect repellants.

"Many older New Yorkers still may not know they are most likely to get seriously ill if infected with West Nile virus," Commissioner Frieden said. "As the summer goes on, people over the age of 50 - and especially those over the age of 65 - should guard against mosquito bites and all New Yorkers should get rid of standing water and make sure window screens are installed tightly and are free of tears or holes."

Protect Against West Nile Virus

Protect Yourself

If outside at dusk or dawn, when mosquitoes are the most active:

-- Cover up. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks.

-- There are currently two types of proven, effective mosquito repellents approved for use in New York State: those that contain the chemical DEET, and those that contain Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow label instructions.

Protect your home

-- Get rid of standing water, where mosquitoes can breed.

-- Empty garbage containers and lids, buckets, cans, flower pots, pool covers, and other items where water collects.

-- Remove discarded tires.

-- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools. Empty and cover them if they're not in use.

-- Turn over wading pools when not in use.

-- Clean pet water bowls and bird baths frequently.

-- Make sure gutters are clear of debris so they can drain properly.

-- Cover wells or other outdoor water storage.

-- Use screens. Put screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. Fix or replace broken screens.

Protect your community

-- Report dead birds and standing water. Dead birds may indicate WNV infection, and mosquitoes breed in standing water. Report both online at nyc.gov/health/wnv or by calling 311.

-- Help your neighbors. Remind or help neighbors to eliminate standing water from their property.

In 2004, there were five human cases of West Nile virus in New York City, two of which were the more serious form (encephalitis) and required hospitalization. A full summary of WNV activity for 2004 can be found online at nyc.gov/html/doh/html/wnv/wnvr1-2004.shtml.

To report dead birds online, CLICK HERE; to report standing water online, visit: http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/wnv/wnvwater.shtml. New Yorkers can also call 311 or CLICK HERE for more information about West Nile virus and how to prevent mosquito bites.