Albany Co. resident tests positive for West Nile Virus

ALBANY COUNTY (NEWS10) — An Albany County resident has tested positive and is being treated for West Nile Virus (WNV), making it the city’s first reported case since 2018. The Albany County Department of Health is urging residents to be extra cautious when spending time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.

WNV spreads through a mosquito that feeds on an infected bird, and the mosquito bites a person or animal. For humans, the virus can present as a mild illness, encephalitis, or meningitis, health officials said.

“The recent case of West Nile Virus in our community is a timely reminder that prevention of mosquito bites is the best protection against West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses,” Albany County Department of Health Commissioner Kristen A. Navarette said. “By following the Fight the Bite steps, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and removing standing water around our homes, we can safely get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather we’re having while still keeping ourselves and our families healthy.”

New York State has seen at least seven other cases of WNV reported in Erie, Monroe, Onondaga, Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties. August and September are peak months for mosquito activity, remaining that way until the first or second hard frost.

For anyone planning to spend time outside at dawn or dusk, health officials recommend covering exposed skin with long clothing and using insect repellent. They also encourage draining any standing water around homes, as it’s a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

“News like this is a reminder that while cases of West Nile Virus are rare, we must remain vigilant,” Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said. “Our health department is monitoring the situation closely, and we will continue to keep the public informed. By working together, we can reduce risk and keep our community safe.”