The West Nile virus has been detected in New York City mosquitoes[1] for the first time this summer, according to the city's Health Department.
The infected mosquitoes were found in the Pomonok neighborhood in Queens and the Huguenot Beach neighborhood on Staten Island.
There have been no reports of people contracting the virus.
In 2012, 41 people[2] in the city tested positive for the disease.
Throughout the country, deaths from West Nile virus hit a record high last year,[3] when it killed 286 people.
Officials are warning New Yorkers to take precautions when outdoors. From the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:[4]
- Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3), or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535.
- Make sure windows have screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home, and repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
- Eliminate any standing water from your property since it provides a breeding site for mosquitoes, and dispose of containers that can collect water.
- Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.
- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty and covered when not in use, and drain water that collects in pool covers.
- Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code. You can report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov.
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References
- ^ New York City mosquitoes (www.nyc.gov)
- ^ 41 people (www.health.ny.gov)
- ^ record high last year, (www.huffingtonpost.com)
- ^ Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: (www.nyc.gov)
- ^ Send us a tip (www.huffingtonpost.com)
- ^ Send us a photo or video (www.huffingtonpost.com)
- ^ Suggest a correction (www.huffingtonpost.com)
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