Westchester County announced its first case of West Nile virus infection for the year. A resident of New Rochelle tested positive for the virus, according to the county health department.
The health director, Sherlitt Amler, stated that infection with the virus typically results in flu-like symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. However, individuals over the age of 60 and those with pre-existing health conditions are more susceptible to severe complications. Amler emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures, such as eliminating stagnant water and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites. He specifically highlighted the period between midnight and dawn as the time when mosquitoes are most active.
The county health department promptly conducted an inspection of the infected person’s residence and nearby areas with stagnant water, taking appropriate measures to eradicate larvae through spraying.
While West Nile virus infection often presents as a mild or asymptomatic illness that resolves on its own, it can manifest with sudden onset symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain after an incubation period of 2 to 14 days.
For any inquiries or additional information, please contact Reporter Yoon Ji-hye at yoon.jihye@koreadailyny.com
of Westchester New Rochelle
One resident tested positive
Westchester County has reported its first case of West Nile virus this year.
The county health department announced that “a New Rochelle resident has tested positive for West Nile virus.”
“Infection with the virus often causes a mild or severe flu-like illness, but it can be more fatal for people over 60 and those with other health complications,” said Health Director Sherlitt Amler. “As the first case of West Nile virus infection comes out, residents should get rid of standing water when outdoors and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites,” he said. In particular, he urged people to pay more attention from midnight to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
The county health department inspected the home of the infected person and the stagnant water pools near the home, and sprayed larvae as necessary.
West Nile virus infection is often mild and asymptomatic, and resolves spontaneously, but after an incubation period of 2 to 14 days, it may cause a sudden onset of fever, headache, or muscle pain.
Reporter Yoon Ji-hye yoon.jihye@koreadailyny.com
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