Four people with West Nile virus in New York; Department of Health warns New Yorkers to stay away from mosquitoes

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Mosquito sucking blood on human skin with nature background

NEW YORK – West Nile virus has been diagnosed among New Yorkers in three different boroughs, officials said Thursday.

Two cases are in Queens, one in Staten Island and one in Brooklyn, said a spokesman for the Department of Health. West Nile virus can cause serious illness, including meningitis and encephalitis, sometimes leading to permanent or long-term complications such as muscle weakness, fatigue, confusion and depression. The mildest symptoms include headache, fever, fatigue and rashes.

"The results of our surveillance of mosquitoes and human surveillance remind all New Yorkers that they must take simple precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites," said Dr. Oxiris Barbot. health commissioner. "Actions such as wearing a mosquito repellent, protecting arms and legs on the outside, stagnant water rejection and installing mosquito nets can reduce the risk of death." human transmission of West Nile virus and save lives. "

West Nile virus is diagnosed every year between 3 and 47 people in New York, according to data from the Department of Health. Since 1999, 11% of New Yorkers diagnosed with West Nile virus have died.

West Nile virus is mainly transmitted by several Culex species, including Culex salinarius, Culex pipiens and Culex restuans.

The Department of Health has recommendations to reduce mosquito exposure:

Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridine, lemon eucalyptus oil (not for children under 3 years of age) or products containing the active ingredient IR3535.

Make sure the windows have screens. Repair or replace torn or cracked screens.

Eliminate stagnant water from your property and dispose of containers that collect water. Stagnant water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.

Make sure the gutters are clean and well drained.

Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, saunas and outdoor hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered if they are not used. Drain the water that accumulates in the pool covers.

Report stagnant water by calling 311.

For more information on West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov.

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