The first human case of West Nile virus was confirmed in New York City, state health department officials announced on Sunday. A Brooklyn man, more than 60-years-old, was reportedly hospitalized after contracting the virus and developing viral meningitis. The man has received treatment, and health officials said he has been released from the hospital, CBS New York reports.
"This first case of West Nile virus disease in New York City provides a vital reminder to protect ourselves against mosquito bites," Health Commissioner Mary T. Bassett said. "Wearing mosquito repellent when you are outdoors, and long sleeves and pants in the morning and evening will reduce your risk of infection," she added, according to ABC 7.
She also reminded those with weak immune systems and those who are ages 60 and above to be extra careful because they can be more vulnerable to the disease.
To help prevent West Nile virus from spreading, health officials plan to spray pesticides in 15 Brooklyn neighborhoods. The health department's website provides a list of the neighborhoods scheduled for spraying.
The health department has done an aggressive campaign on the prevention of West Nile virus infection in the state. It has conducted six rounds of pesticide spraying and three aerial larviciding this year. It also treats 62,160 catch basins up to three times each year. About 90 information campaigns about the disease have been done in the five boroughs, ABC 7 reports.
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