ROSSVILLE — Mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus were discovered on Staten Island, marking the first such finding of the spring and summer mosquito season — though no human cases have been reported yet, city officials said Monday.
The infected insects were collected in Rossville, according to the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which said it will be stepping up surveillance in the area with extra mosquito-monitoring traps.
Crews are already applying larvicide in catch basins and at other sites with standing water, and will begin spraying it via helicopter in marshy areas of Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn and The Bronx later this month. Workers will spray pesticide if "persistent" West Nile activity is detected, officials said.
Mosquito season in the city typically runs from April to September.
To avoid insect bites, the Health Department recommends that residents cover their arms and legs when outdoors, use insect repellent, make sure their windows have screens and remove any standing water from their properties.
Though some people infected with West Nile virus don't get sick, it can lead to serious health complications. Symptoms often involve flu-like symptoms including headache, fever and fatigue, according to the Health Department.
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