- HEALTH & FITNESS
New York City reports 1st human case of West Nile Virus in 2026
You can find tips below on how to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites
ByEyewitness News
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 9:29PM
New York City has reported the first human case of West Nile Virus this year.
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) –New York City reported its first human case of the West Nile Virus this year
The city’s health department says the person who lives in the city got the virus after spending time outside in several locations outside of the city
The department says it’s found more than 1,000 mosquitoes with the virus in the city since June, and has treated the areas where those mosquitoes were found
Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are present in the city every year from June through October, with peak activity typically during August and September
Officials are reminding residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites
“The steps to protect yourself are simple: wear insect repellent, cover up during dawn and dusk, and get rid of standing water around your home,” said New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin. “All New Yorkers should take these precautions seriously, especially older New Yorkers and those with a weakened immune system.”
Nationally, there have been 222 human cases of West Nile virus so far this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control, primarily in Arizona, Texas, and California
Tips on how to avoid mosquito bites:
Know your risk for severe illness from West Nile virus
People with a weakened immune system, including those who take medications that weaken the immune system, are at higher risk of severe illness. For example, rituximab, ocrelizumab, or similar medications, used to treat cancers, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions or prevent rejection of transplanted organs, weaken the immune system.
Keep mosquitoes out
Prevent mosquito breeding
You can report chronic standing water in private or public locations online or by calling 311. You can report water in the street caused by a street defect or a clogged catch basin online or by calling 311.
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