A Yonkers resident has tested positive for West Nile virus after recent travel outside the county, marking Westchester County’s first confirmed case of the year, according to a Westchester County release. West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease spread through the bite of an infected Culex species mosquito.
Most infected individuals show no signs or symptoms. However, it can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. According to the release, West Nile Virus most often causes a moderate flu-like illness. Still, it can be more serious, especially for people aged 65 and older and those with underlying medical conditions.
The Westchester County Department of Health staff will collaborate with the infected resident to determine whether the exposure occurred during travel outside the county or near the resident’s home, according to the release.
“This first case of West Nile Virus is a reminder to take precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes,” said Dr. Sherlita Amler, Westchester County Health Commissioner. “To avoid breeding mosquitoes in your own yard, remove all standing water around your home after it rains, and use repellents when you spend time outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.”
The county recommends residents walk around their property to remove any standing water and check flowerpot drip trays, kiddie pools, play equipment, and other items left outdoors. Residents who notice large areas of standing water on public property should report them to the County Health Department at (914) 813-5000.
Throughout the season, the department traps and tests mosquitoes to track the presence of viruses they carry. For more information, residents are encouraged to go to: https://health.westchestercountyny.gov/west-nile-virus.
