NYC Health Department Confirms Season's First Human West Nile Case
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- The New York City Health Department says it has confirmed the season's first human case of West Nile virus.
Health officials said Monday that the patient is a Brooklyn man who was diagnosed with encephalitis. He is over age 40 and has underlying medical conditions.
"This season's first case of West Nile virus is a reminder to protect ourselves against mosquito bites," Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett said in a statement. "Wearing mosquito repellent when you are outdoors, getting rid of standing water, and installing window screens will reduce your risk of getting bitten."
Bassett said West Nile can especially affect people 60 and over and those with weakened immune systems. In rare cases, it can be fatal.
"People should take it seriously," Bassett said. "The department's been working on this for over 15 years."
The season typically runs between July and October.
The department has completed nine rounds of pesticide spraying and seven aerial larvicide treatments to reduce the risk of West Nile and Zika.
No Zika virus has been found in any mosquito in New York City.
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