by Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been confirmed in all five boroughs of New York City, city health officials say.
The virus, which has no cure, has appeared in 65 ZIP codes in the past two weeks — with no positive human cases so far, according to New York City’s health department tracker.
This year marks the 25th consecutive season of the virus in the Big Apple.
The cases in Queens account for half of the total cases so far. Manhattan lags behind with 12 cases, but the DOH’s findings indicate an increase as the season — which runs from May to October — continues.
West Nile virus typically peaks in August and September, and July’s results indicate a more difficult season than the Big Apple has seen in the past, officials said.
According to the Health Ministry, only about 15 percent of cases in the city are fatal, and an average of 17 people are diagnosed each year.
Most people with the condition do not appear or feel sick. Symptoms may include fever, headache, altered mental status, and other neurological problems, including brain damage in extreme cases.
The best ways to combat the virus are simple: good insect repellent and protecting exposed skin. Mosquitoes are also attracted to exposed water sources like fountains and thrive in moisture, so staying away from fountains or beaches on hot days can help, experts say.
In October 2021, West Nile virus cases in New York tripled during one of the worst mosquito seasons to hit the Northeast.
Only 18 people in the city have died from the disease since the first known case.
