The New York City Health Department confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in a 41-year-old Brooklyn woman.
So far this season, the Health Department has identified WNV in 139 mosquito pools citywide ? eastern Queens, southeastern Bronx and Staten Island have had significant activity.
West Nile virus WNV has been detected in all five boroughs. The agency is continuing mosquito surveillance, responding to standing water complaints, and conducting larviciding and spraying as needed.
The patient began feeling ill in mid-August. Her symptoms included fever, headache, fatigue, weakness and muscle pain. She was hospitalized on August 25th, and is now home recovering. Because she traveled outside of New York City during the two weeks preceding her illness, she may have been exposed to WNV either in New York City, or elsewhere.
?I urge all New Yorkers ? especially those over 50 ? to take steps to prevent mosquito bites,? said Dr. Thomas Frieden, New York City Health Commissioner. ?Wear mosquito repellent and long pants and sleeves if you?re outside in the evening, and be sure your window screens are intact. These simple steps can help stop the spread of West Nile virus.?