In a concerning development, the New York City Health Department announced on Friday that two residents from Queens have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, marking the city's first confirmed human cases for the year 2025. This alarming news comes amidst ongoing efforts to monitor and control mosquito populations in the city.
In addition to the confirmed cases, the health department reported that the West Nile Virus was also detected in blood donations from two other individuals; one from Brooklyn and the other from Staten Island. However, upon further investigation, health department spokesperson Laura Brahm clarified that neither donor met the criteria to be classified as a confirmed case.
The health department is actively investigating additional reports of potential West Nile Virus cases in Brooklyn. Officials anticipate providing further updates on these inquiries within the next two weeks, underscoring the importance of vigilance as the health risks associated with the virus persist.
Human cases of West Nile Virus typically arise from bites by infected mosquitoes, which are prevalent in New York City from May to October. Since July, the virus has been detected in mosquito populations across all five boroughs. The peak season for the virus generally occurs during August and September, according to health department data.
The West Nile Virus can lead to severe health complications, particularly for elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions, including the use of mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. For those with weakened immune systems, it is advisable to avoid outdoor activities during these high-risk hours altogether.
“West Nile Virus can cause serious illness, especially among people over 55 and those with weakened immune systems,” stated Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the mortality rate for individuals aged 70 and older is approximately 20%. In contrast, the mortality rate for those under 50 is significantly lower at around 2%. Particularly vulnerable groups, such as individuals with certain blood cancers or those receiving stem cell and solid organ transplants, face even higher mortality rates ranging from 30% to 40%.
Most individuals infected with the West Nile Virus do not exhibit any symptoms. However, some may experience mild symptoms like fever, headaches, muscle aches, rash, and extreme fatigue. Of the two confirmed cases this season, one individual has already been discharged after a brief hospitalization, while the other remains hospitalized with encephalitis, a serious inflammation of the brain.
As of August 22, there have been 988 positive mosquito pools identified throughout the city, which is a decrease compared to the same period in 2024. To combat the spread of the West Nile Virus, the city is implementing a range of mosquito control strategies, including aerial spraying, catch basin treatments, and ground-based larviciding. Scheduled mosquito control spraying is set to take place from Monday to Wednesday in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
The city is encouraging residents who suspect they may have contracted the West Nile Virus to promptly contact their healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance. With ongoing surveillance and preventive measures, health officials aim to protect the community from the potential dangers of this viral infection.
