West Nile Virus spreads across US: What you need to know | Causes, symptoms and treatment
West Nile virus, including fatalities among residents. Here's an overview of the situation and the potential risks associated with this mosquito-borne illness.
Worrying Spread in New York City
West Nile virus is making its presence felt in New York City's five boroughs: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. Officials report an elevated number of mosquito pools infected with the virus this year compared to the five-year average. As of Friday, 16 cases have been documented across the five boroughs, with Queens bearing the highest number of cases, according to the city's Health Department.
First Death Reported in New Jersey
On a concerning note, officials announced the first death attributed to West Nile virus in Bergen County, New Jersey. Among the eight cases reported in the state so far, six required hospitalization, according to the New Jersey Health Department. Notably, in 2022, New Jersey reported 20 cases of the virus, with four proving fatal. In contrast, New York City reported 46 cases last year, with two fatalities.
West Nile Virus: An Overview
The West Nile virus is recognized as the leading cause of mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, with most cases occurring during the summer and fall months. Data indicates that approximately one in five infected individuals develop symptoms, while just one in about 150 experiences severe illness, marked by symptoms like fever, muscle weakness, headache, altered mental status, and paralysis.
The virus, first isolated in 1937, derives its name from Uganda's West Nile district, where it was initially discovered. It's primarily transmitted through mosquito bites when they feed on infected birds, common carriers of the disease. The virus is genetically
