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First West Nile Case Of Year Confirmed In Westchester

The first human case of West Nile Virus this year has been identified in Westchester.

Mosquito

Mosquito

Photo Credit: Wikipedia/Alvesgaspar

The case was confirmed in an Elmsford resident with multiple underlying medical conditions, the Westchester County Department of Health said, noting that the person "is recovering at home."

The Health Department said it "evaluated standing water around the resident’s home and nearby catch basins, and treated those with larvicide as needed."

“This first case of West Nile Virus should remind us all to take precautions against mosquito bites by removing standing water from our property," County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler, said, "especially after recent heavy rain and flooding, and using repellents when we spend time outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.”

West Nile Virus infection most often causes a mild or moderate flu-like illness, but can be more serious, particularly for those 60 and older, and those with other health complications.

In 2021 and 2020, three people in Westchester County were diagnosed with West Nile Virus, and in 2019, one Westchester resident had the virus.

"Residents should inspect their property and remove any standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding," the County Health Department said. "Residents who notice large areas of standing water on public property should report them to the Westchester County Department of Health at 914-813-5000.:

Throughout the season, the Westchester County Health Department said it traps and tests mosquitoes to track the presence of mosquito-borne viruses. 

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