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The New York City Department of Health announced Tuesday that West Nile virus was found in two people as the infected mosquito population reaches a new high.
Two human cases have been reported as the city’s five boroughs deal with 1,068 mosquito pools that have tested positive for the virus, according to the city’s health department. Compared to last year, New York had a West Nile virus pool of 779.
Typically, the virus spreads to humans when an infected mosquito bites an individual, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These mosquitoes are generally present in the city from July to October, with peaks of activity in August and September.
One case was reported in Brooklyn while the other individual was present in Queens. So far this year, the United States has recorded 54 total cases, resulting in four deaths.
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“We are at the height of West Nile virus season, but there are things you can do to reduce the risk of being bitten,” said Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the city’s health commissioner. “Use EPA registered insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, especially outdoors at dusk and dawn, when the types of mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active. Additionally, you can prevent mosquitoes from spawning in water by emptying external containers that contain water or by calling 311 if you see standing water that you can’t empty. Help protect yourself and your loved ones with these actions during the WNV season.
There is currently no vaccine for the virus, so preventative measures such as insect repellent, wearing long clothing, and avoiding standing puddles can help reduce exposure. Symptoms of West Nile virus can include body aches, skin rashes, fatigue, and fever.
About 80 percent of individuals show no symptoms of the disease, and only 1 percent develop serious illness, according to the CDC.
SEVERAL STATES FEEL THE RISK OF WESTERN NILE VIRUSES DURING THE PEAK PERIOD
Although New York has more than 40 species of mosquitoes, West Nile virus is usually transmitted by different Culex species, such as Culex salinarius and Culex pipiens, according to the city’s health department.
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