West Nile Virus Cases Rise in New York State: 10 People Infected in NYC

Health officials are urging caution as cases of⁢ West ‍Nile virus ⁢continue to surface across New York state.

West Nile Virus Cases on the Rise

According to the ​New York State Department of Health, as of ​August 24, a total of 20 ‍cases of West Nile virus infection have occurred in the state, including 10 in New York City.

In terms of the number of‍ infected people by region, in New York City, Queens had the most with 4, followed by the Bronx with 3, Manhattan with 2, and Brooklyn with 1, for a total of 10. Outside of ​New York City, there are 10 confirmed cases of West Nile Virus,⁤ including ‍five in Suffolk County, three in Westchester County, and two in Nassau County, showing ⁢that the majority of cases are concentrated in New York City and⁣ neighboring counties.

New York Governor Kathy⁣ Hokule emphasized, “The best way to prevent West Nile virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites,” adding, “Minimize skin exposure when going outside and actively use mosquito repellent.”

West Nile virus is prevalent from May to October, and symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and paralysis generally appear 3 ‍to 15 ‍days after infection, and in severe cases, it can lead to death.

Prevention is key to avoiding West⁣ Nile virus infection. Residents are advised to take necessary ‍precautions to minimize exposure to mosquito bites, including using ⁣mosquito repellent and wearing protective clothing when outdoors.