West Nile Virus Still Poses Risk Locally

by Paula Eisenberg

(September 18, 2002) Summer is drawing to a close, but it's still West Nile season in Westchester County. An 83-year-old Town of Mamaroneck resident is recovering from the virus, according to Town Supervisor Valerie M. O'Keeffe. "This case prompted the County Department of Health to do an intensive survey of the area, looking for mosquito larvae in standing water," she said. They set extra traps and did find more larvae than usual in standing water in the Leatherstocking Trail woods. Larvicide was applied there, and a check was made of larvicide "cakes" placed in area storm drains in May. Those were found to be still effective.

West Nile encephalitis is a viral illness transmitted to humans from the bite of infected mosquitoes, who themselves became infected by feeding on infected birds. Symptoms may include high fever, headache, confusion, muscle aches and weakness, seizures and paralysis. After infection, a patient will start to show signs of the illness within five to 15 days, and the most serious cases can result in coma, permanent neurological damage, and even death. But most infected people won't even know they have the disease, experiencing only mild flu-like symptoms. Those most susceptible to serious effects of the illness are the elderly, the very young and those with compromised immune systems.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) website, there have been 1641 laboratory-positive human cases reported across the nation this year, and 80 fatalities.

How can you protect yourself against West Nile? According to the Westchester County Board of Health's West Nile Watch website, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of being bitten by a mosquito, and to help reduce mosquito breeding in your area:

• When outdoors for long periods of time, especially near dawn and dusk, wear long pants, long sleeves and socks
• Consider using a mosquito repellent containing DEET
• Make sure your window screens are in good repair
• Make sure there are no areas of standing water near your home
• Pour a couple of capfuls of bleach in your basement sump pump, if it has standing water in it
• Report standing water in your neighborhood
• Report any dead birds you find

Westchester County West Nile Watch page

For more information, or to report standing water or a dead bird, call the 24-hour Public Health Information Line at (914) 813-5609.

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