NYC officials said there is an increase in mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus this summer.
The New York City Health Department says the virus has been detected in “nearly twice as many mosquito pools as this time last year” and is stepping up control efforts across the city.
Here’s what to know.
What Is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus typically spreads through infected mosquitoes that bite humans. The virus is seen during mosquito season, which takes place from summer to fall, or June to October.
Late August is when the virus usually peaks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Those who contract the virus usually see symptoms two to six days after a bite, the agency says. Common symptoms include fever, headaches, body aches, joint pain, rash, vomiting and diarrhea, according to the CDC.
Most people, however, do not develop symptoms at all.
NYC Sees Spike in West Nile Virus Mosquitoes
Although no human cases have been reported in the city this season as of Aug. 6, the Health Department warned New Yorkers to take additional precautions to stop mosquito bites after seeing an increase of the virus in mosquito pools.
“Each week, trained staff collect mosquitoes from hundreds of locations across the city,” the agency said in a release. “The mosquitoes are grouped into samples, or ‘pools,’ with up to 50 mosquitoes tested together for the presence of West Nile virus.”
Out of more than 2,000 pools tested, 612 came back positive. Last year, 326 pools tested positive.
The city has a map for New Yorkers to see where West Nile virus has been detected.
“The Health Department has intensified mosquito surveillance in affected areas by deploying additional traps and expanding mosquito control efforts,” the agency wrote. “Enhanced larval control is also underway to reduce mosquito populations before they become capable of transmitting disease.”
Mosquito Prevention Efforts in NYC
Alongside testing mosquitoes weekly, NYC Health has other methods to decrease the mosquito population, including:
Dropping larvicide via helicopter over nonresidential spots such as marshes and wetlands
Spraying via truck for adult mosquitoes in select neighborhoods; residents are notified of treatment at least one day in advance
A schedule of planned efforts is available from the city.
How to Protect Yourself Against West Nile Virus
Some tips include:
Eliminate standing water
Limit outdoor time during dawn and dusk
Use bug spray
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, such as long sleeves and pants, while outdoors in areas with mosquito activity
Reporting by Amethyst Martinez, USA TODAY Network. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.