West Nile Virus Found in New York City Mosquitos

The New York City Health Department has detected the West Nile Virus in the city’s mosquitoes for the first time this summer, though no human cases have been reported yet.

The mosquitoes were found in the Glen Oaks, Queens and New Dorp Beach, Staten Island neighborhoods. The city plans to set up more traps and apply larvicide in affected areas.

“The most effective way to keep mosquito populations low is to remove standing water from items like buckets, gutters, planters, or any other receptacles that might be outdoors. New Yorkers are also encouraged to wear mosquito repellent and cover their arms and legs if they’re outside at dawn or dusk in areas with mosquitoes,” Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said in a press release.

West Nile can cause neurological disease and flu-like symptoms, though not all those bitten become sick.