Two Queens residents contracted West Nile Virus, marking New York City’s first human cases in 2025, the health department said Friday.
Officials also said the virus was also detected in blood donations from two other individuals, one residing in Brooklyn and the other on Staten Island. However, neither donor “met the criteria to be considered a case,” once interviewed, health department spokesperson Laura Brahm said.
The health department said it is also investigating reports about further cases in Brooklyn. Brahm said officials expect to have more information on those cases within two weeks.
Human cases of West Nile virus are the result of individuals being bitten by infected mosquitoes, which are present in the city from May to October. The virus has been detected in mosquitoes across all five boroughs since July, and peak season for the virus is in the months of August and September, according to the department.
The virus can be fatal in some cases, with pronounced risks for elderly and immunocompromised people.
Health officials are warning New Yorkers to use repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants during the dawn and dusk hours. Those with weakened immune systems are being instructed to avoid going outdoors during those time periods altogether.
“West Nile virus can cause serious illness, especially among people over 55 and with weakened immune systems,” Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said in a statement from the department.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the mortality rate for people at least 70 years old is about 20%, but just 2% for those under 50. The mortality rate is between 30% and 40% for people with certain blood cancers, recipients of stem cell and solid organ transplants, and people undergoing certain antibody therapies, per the CDC.
Most people infected with the virus do not develop any symptoms, though some may experience fever, headaches, muscle aches, rash and extreme fatigue.
One of the two confirmed human cases of West Nile virus this season has already been discharged since being briefly hospitalized, according to the health department. The second individual is currently hospitalized with encephalitis, a form of brain inflammation.
There have been 988 positive mosquito pools across the city since Aug. 22, which is fewer than reported at this time in 2024, according to the health department. It said the city is treating infected mosquito populations with spray operations, aerial, catch basis and ground-based larviciding.
Mosquito control sprayings are scheduled Monday through Wednesday in the Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island.
The city is urging anyone who suspects they may have contracted the virus to contact their health care provider.
This story has been updated with more information.
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