We haven’t experienced the Seasonal Flu and we are here
telling our Seniors to Stay Home and Indoors!
New York is dealt with the West Nile VIRUS!
Beware of Mosquitos & the UnMasked Man who Bugs You!
2020 DOHMH Alert #26:
West Nile Virus – Detection of First Positive Mosquito Pools in 2020
- West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes collected from the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
- Mosquito activity in New York City (NYC) usually peaks around July 20. To date, no human cases have been reported in NYC this year.
- WNV disease should be suspected in patients presenting with viral meningitis or encephalitis, acute flaccid paralysis, and/or symptoms compatible with West Nile fever, particularly now through October 31.
- The most sensitive screening test for WNV in humans is IgM enzyme immunoassay on cerebrospinal fluid and/or serum. Testing is widely available at commercial laboratories.
- PCR testing, while confirmatory, is less sensitive. However, it may be the best option for patients who are severely immunosuppressed and unable to mount a detectable immune response.
- Advise patients, especially adults 50 years and older or persons with weakened immune systems, to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
- Report all cases to the Health Dept of encephalitis or any laboratory evidence of current or recent infection with WNV or any other arboviral infection.
