WHITE PLAINS – While no human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported to date this summer in Westchester, West Nile Virus has been detected in nine mosquito pools primarily in southern Westchester. 

Higher than usual activity of West Nile Virus is also occurring in neighboring counties, with a total of 37 human cases of West Nile Virus reported for New York City and Long Island.

Due to Westchester’s proximity to those areas and the upcoming rain expected, the Westchester County Department of Health is reminding all residents to protect themselves and their homes from mosquitoes this holiday weekend.

The Westchester Health Department prepared for the summer mosquito season by applying larvicide briquettes to numerous street catch basins throughout the county in an effort to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as the West Nile Virus. 

Officials said residents should continue to do their part by taking personal protection measures and removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed.  Protective measures are especially important for individuals 50 years of age and over who are at increased risk of illness due to West Nile Virus.