Staten Island has most West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes in NYC: officials
NEW YORK (PIX11) – West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes across New York City, according to the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
No human cases of the illness have been reported, but it has been found in all boroughs except for Manhattan. Health officials said 141 groups of mosquitoes have tested positive, with Staten Island reporting the highest number at 66.
West Nile virus spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito and can affect both humans and animals, according to officials.
Some steps that New Yorkers can take to protect themselves include wearing insect repellent, making sure your windows have screens, reporting standing water to the city, cleaning roof gutters and ensuring they’re draining properly and cleaning and chlorinating swimming pools and hot tubs.
In New York City, West Nile season typically lasts from May through October. Health officials said they will continue to monitor mosquito populations closely and apply pesticides during the summer months to help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.