Westchester’s first human West Nile virus case this year has been confirmed in a Yonkers man, the county government said.
“This first case of West Nile virus should remind all of us to remove standing water around our homes every time after it rains, and use repellents when we spend time outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, Dr. Sherlita Amler, county health commissioner, said in the release Wednesday, Aug. 20.
The health department said it will evaluate the area for standing water around the resident’s home and nearby catch basins, and treat those with larvicide as needed.
What are symptoms of West Nile virus?
West Nile virus most often causes a mild or moderate flu-like illness, with fever, headache, body aches, and joint pain, the news release said. But it can be more serious, especially for people 65 and older, and for people with underlying medical conditions.
How to prevent West Nile virus
Westchester County Health Department said people should:
Residents who see large standing-water areas on public property should report them to the county health department at 914-813-5000.
The health department, during the season, traps and tests mosquitoes to see if they are carrying viruses.
More tips to prevent West Nile:
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Westchester’s first West Nile virus human case of 2025 found in Yonkers man. What to know
Reporting by Michael P. McKinney, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
