West Nile virus cases nearly tripled in New York City in 2021.
Twenty have been reported so far this year – up from just seven last year.
There have been no deaths from the mosquito-borne virus, while there was one last year, according to the city’s health ministry.
The agency cited hot and humid summer weather as being able to contribute to the rise.
West Nile virus “se ason” typically lasts from June to October, the DOH said.
The agency has identified a record 1,117 positive mosquito pools – groups of insects that have been trapped and tested together. Queens led the way, with 392 positive pools, followed by Staten Island with 320; the Bronx with 179; Brooklyn with 145; and Manhattan with 81.
Mosquitoes infected with the virus were identified as late as Wednesday in Long Island City and Middle Village in Queens, and in New Dorp on Staten Island.
“This is actually one of the worst mosquito seasons in recent memory with record numbers of bugs plaguing communities across New York City – from the city to Buffalo and across upstate New York,” he said. Sen. Chuck Schumer said in September, announcing a push for more funding to the CDC to fight vector-borne diseases, including West Nile.
Cases are also on the rise in New Jersey, where 32 were reported through October 9, up from eight in a typical year. The state also recorded its first death from the virus since 2018, according to a report.
West Nile virus first appeared in New York City in 1999 and typically sickens 3 to 47 people each year, according to the DOH.
Most people who are infected don’t know it, with the most common symptoms being headache, fever, muscle pain, and extreme fatigue. In a small number of people, the virus can cause infection of the brain and spinal cord.
–
