First Batch of Mosquitoes with West Nile Virus Found In Westchester (Rye, NY)

Written By: Robert Cox

WHITE PLAINS, NY (August 13, 2022) — The area surrounding the positive mosquito batches is being inspected by the Health Department.

Why it matters: West Nile Virus infection can cause a mild or moderate flu-like illness, but can be more serious for people 60 and older, and those with other health complications.

The Rye batch collected on July 26 is the first positive out of 101 batches of mosquitoes collected in Westchester that were tested for West Nile Virus by the New York State Department of Health. Last year, the first positive batch in Westchester was collected on July 13. 

In 2021, West Nile Virus was identified in 4 local mosquito batches out of 153 submitted for testing and three people were diagnosed with West Nile Virus.

How to stop mosquito breeding:

  • Remove standing water from outdoor toys and play houses
  • Remove discarded tires
  • Drill holes in the bottoms of all recycling containers that are left outdoors
  • Turn over plastic wading pools, buckets and wheelbarrows
  • Change the water in birdbaths
  • Keep storm drains and gutters clear
  • Chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor spas and hot tubs
  • Discard or turn over cans, plastic containers and ceramic pots

How to prevent mosquito bites:

  • Avoid outdoors late afternoon/early evening
  • Use insect repellents when outdoors
  • Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks when outdoors
  • To protect infants over two months of age, adults can apply insect repellents with up to 30 percent DEET to their own hands and then rub it onto children

What they are saying:

Westchester County Executive George Latimer: “We can keep mosquitoes from breeding and biting us in our own backyards if we pour out standing water after it rains and remove or turn over wheelbarrows, flower pot drip trays and any toy pails or watering cans.”

Westchester County Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD: “To protect yourself and your family when you spend time outdoors, use repellents, especially from dawn to dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.”

Take action: Residents who notice large areas of standing water on public property should report them to the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000.