West Nile fever mosquitoes discovered in New York: what's important to know

In addition to protective masks, New Yorkers need to stock up on insect repellents as well. West Nile virus mosquitoes have been discovered in the Bronx and Staten Island areas. This publication writes Patch.

West Nile virus mosquitoes first appeared this season with city health officials.

No cases of human disease have been registered yet, but the seasonal appearance of this virus is extremely undesirable for the city right now, when it is fighting the coronavirus pandemic.
For residents, this means taking extra steps to protect their health beyond wearing medical masks and keeping distance. It is also important to avoid contact with disease-carrying blood suckers and use insect sprays. “This summer, New Yorkers can take a few simple steps to protect themselves, including using insect repellent or covering their hands and feet,” said Health Commissioner Dr Oxiris Barbot. “We also urge everyone to remove standing water, which may be a habitat for mosquitoes.”

What is important to know

West Nile virus first appeared in New York two decades ago. Its victims annually fall from 3 to 47 people; 46 out of 353 New Yorkers - that's 13% - contracted the virus and died.

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About 80% of people who become infected with the virus have no symptoms of the disease. But in some people, especially people aged 50 years or older or with a weakened immune system, it can cause serious and potentially fatal infections of the brain and spinal cord.

The main symptoms are: headache, fever, muscle pain and extreme fatigue.

The main carriers of the virus are several species of Culex mosquitoes, which spread it from April to September. Health department officials are actively taking measures to destroy mosquito larvae every year.

The necessary measures were also taken this year - July 7 New York Starts Fighting West Nile Fever Mosquitoes. To this end, all boros in New York conducted aerial pesticide treatment.

How to protect yourself

New Yorkers also need to take care of their safety. The first thing to do is get rid of stagnant water, and protect yourself from mosquito bites using sprays.

Key recommendations for virus protection:

• Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET (Diethyltoluamide, DEET), picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil (not for children under three years old), or products containing the active ingredient IR3535.
• Install insect screens on windows if they are missing. Replace those with holes and holes.
• Make sure that there is no standing water in your yard, dispose of containers that may collect water. Make sure that the gutters on the roof are clean and provide a reliable outflow of water.
• Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered when not in use. Drain the water that collects in the lids of the pools.

According to the New York City Health Code, non-compliance with these rules is a violation. You can report standing water by calling 311 or visiting this Web site. For more information on West Nile virus, call 311 or visit City Hall website.

Virus details West Nile is available here.