|
|
|
West Nile Virus is named
after the West Nile region of Uganda, where the virus was
first discovered. The outbreak in New York State in 1999 was
the first time the virus had ever been seen in the Western
Hemisphere. (For updated information
on mosquito, bird and human testing results,
click here).
In most cases, West Nile
Virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds.
(Only females bite because they need blood meals for the eggs
they carry). Infected mosquitoes can then spread West Nile
Virus to humans and other animals when they bite. In a small
number of cases, West Nile Virus also has spread through blood
transfusions, organ transplants, breast feeding and during
pregnancy from pregnant woman to unborn child. Pregnant women
should consult their health care provider for more
information. |
|
|
Contact
Numbers
| Report a Dead Bird |
845-364-3173 |
| Report a Breeding Site |
845-364-3173 |
| County Radio Station |
AM 1640 |
|
Email
WNV@co.rockland.ny.us |
|
|
People can reduce their chances
of getting bitten by getting rid of mosquito breeding sites,
minimizing outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most active and by
considering the use of repellents if they are going to be outdoors
when mosquitoes are active.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in
moist areas, such as standing water. The eggs become larvae that
remain in the water until the adults mature and fly off. Some
mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn when the air is
calm, and that is when they are most likely to bite. However,
others will feed at any time of day.
While there are about 70
different species of mosquitoes in New York State, only certain
species have been associated with West Nile Virus. (For
information on mosquitoes in Rockland County,
click here).
Getting a mosquito bite does not mean you will
automatically get West Nile Virus! Those who are at highest risk of
becoming seriously ill from West Nile infection are people who are
over the age of 50. Healthy children and adults are at low risk for
serious illness from West Nile Virus. |
