Mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been confirmed in all five boroughs of New York City, according to city health officials.
The virus, which has no cure, has popped up in 65 zip codes in the last two weeks — with no positive cases in humans yet, according to the NYC Department of Health’s tracker.
This year marks the virus’ 25th consecutive season in the Big Apple.
Cases in Queens account for half of all reported findings so far. Manhattan trails with 12 cases, but the DOH’s findings indicate a rise as the season — spanning from May to October — continues.
West Nile typically peaks during August and September, with July’s findings pointing towards a tougher season than the Big Apple has seen in the past, officials said.
Only around 15% of cases in the city are fatal, with an average of 17 people being diagnosed each year, according to the DOH.
Most people who do catch it don’t look or feel sick. Symptoms can include a fever, headache, altered mental status, and other neurological issues – including brain damage in extreme cases.
The best combatants for the virus are simple — good bug spray and covering up exposed skin. Mosquitoes are also attracted to exposed water sources like fountains and thrive in humidity, so staying away from fountains or beaches on steamy days can help, according to experts.
In October 2021, West Nile virus cases in NYC tripled during one of the worst mosquito seasons to hit the northeast.
Only 18 people in the city have been killed by the disease since the first known case.
