Sound Shore

A 73-year-old man from Rye Brook has been diagnosed with West Nile virus, the first human case in Westchester County this year, health officials said today. The man is hospitalized but recovering.

Dr. Cheryl Archbald, Westchester’s acting health commissioner, said residents should be on alert, particularly with rain possible over the Labor Day weekend:

The Health Department has conducted an environmental assessment near the individual’s home and has found no signs of mosquito breeding activity. However, this is a particularly active mosquito season and it is important for residents to do everything they can to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and to protect themselves from being bitten.

The virus usually causes flu-like symptoms, but can be serious and potentially fatal for older people and those with other health problems.

The virus has been more active this year in the region, with 38 human cases reported in New York City and Long Island. It has been found in nine mosquito pools in Westchester, mostly in the southern portion, according the the county health department.

First detected in 1999, the virus has been found in 254 people, with 26 deaths, statewide over the last decade, according to the New York State Department of Health. More info here.

 Print This Post |  Email This Post