Season's First West Nile Mosquitoes Found In Queens, Staten Island
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus have been found within the New York City limits for the first time this season, according to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
The department found infected mosquitoes at two sites – one in Glen Oaks, Queens, and the other in New Dorp Beach, Staten Island, according to a news release.
There have been no human cases so far this season, the department noted.
The department is increasing its fight against mosquitoes by setting up additional traps and treating catch basins in the affected neighborhoods, the department said.
The Health Department will also continue its effort to kill mosquito larvae before they mature, by applying larvacide in catch basins, marshlands, and areas with standing water.
Officials suggest people take the following precautions to protect themselves against mosquitoes:
• Wear insect repellent and cover up outside in the late afternoon and evening. The city advises a repellent containing picaridin, DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3), or the active ingredient IR3535.
• Check toys and play houses for standing water.
• Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.
• Turn over containers, wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Change the water in birdbaths at least twice weekly.
• Sweep puddles off driveways after it rains.
• Clear storm drains and gutters.
• Clean and chlorinate pools and hot tubs and drain water off their covers.
