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RYE, N.Y. Mosquitoes found in both Rye Brook and the City of Rye tested positive for West Nile virus, the Westchester County Department of Health reported Monday.
One batch of mosquitoes tested positive for the virus in Rye on July 6 and four more batches were found July 17 and 18. In Rye Brook, two positive batches also were found on July 17 and 18. The information was not made available to the public until Monday on the departments website.
West Nile virus is carried by mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds. It is spread to humans when they are bitten by infected mosquitoes and can cause serious illness. Though area mosquitoes have tested positive, no cases of the disease have yet been reported in Westchester residents.
Most people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes experience mild or no symptoms. The infection can become serious in some people, particularly those over 50. Symptoms come on suddenly five to 15 days following a bite. Over the past 12 years, 31 people in Westchester County were diagnosed with West Nile virus and one died, according to the county Health Department.
The department recommends these measures to prevent mosquito bites:
Remove containers that may hold standing water from around your home.
Report any standing water by calling 914-813-5000.
Use insect repellent to reduce exposure.
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