The first cases of West Nile virus detected in Rockland mosquitoes have been confirmed by the New York State Department of Health. The infected mosquitoes were collected from traps in Orangetown and Clarkstown late last month as part of the county’s ongoing mosquito surveillance efforts. No human cases have been reported thus far. A bite from a West Nile Virus-infected mosquito can cause serious illness, and in some cases, death, though the chances of a person getting sick are minimal for those under the age of 50. West Nile can cause serious complications, including neurological diseases, or flu-like illness with fever, headache and body aches, nausea, and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. If you think you have symptoms, see your doctor right away. To learn more about West Nile symptoms, click here, or call the Health Department at 845-364-3173.
RADIO UNSCRIPTED!