West Nile virus alert for New York City

Avoid parks and other wooded areas where mosquitoes are likely to thrive.

Photo: FOX News screen grab

As if the intolerable heat weren't enough of a problem this summer, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reports high levels of the potentially deadly West Nile Virus in every borough of the city except Manhattan. The department has issued an alert to doctors and other health professionals to be on the lookout for symptoms of the virus and to report any cases detected. As a followup measure, officials will spray residential and non-residential areas of the affected boroughs known to harbor large mosquito populations.

Health Commissioner Thomas Farley is quoted by FOX News as advising that "[w]arm standing water is the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, so with the three heat waves that we've already had this summer, it is vitally important to make sure standing water is reduced to help prevent mosquito breeding." People aged 50 or oder are especially at risk.

To minimize risk of exposure to mosquitoes and West Nile infection, residents are advised to take the following precautions:

• If you plan to be outdoors for a protracted period of time, use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or products

  that contain the active ingredient IR3535. It is important to note that oil of lemon eucalyptus is not recommended for children under three years of age.

• Safeguard your home by making sure windows have screens and repairing or replacing any screens that have tears or holes. Make sure additionally that roof gutters are clean and draining properly.
• Eliminate any standing water from your property, and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.

The most common symptoms of West Nile virus are headache, fever, and extreme fatigue. If you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.