Thread by @DrEricDing

Breaking—New York City reports 2 human cases of the West Nile virus as the city sees record number of infected mosquitoes. It’s back!

(I used to work on #WestNileVirus epidemic control in NYC for @DrTomFrieden at @nycHealthy almost 20 years ago)
cnn.com/2022/08/17/hea…

2) Across the city's five boroughs, 1,068 mosquito pools have tested positive for the virus, according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The city recorded 779 positive pools at the same time last year. (I used to collect these 19 years ago)

3) Mosquitoes infected with WNV are typically present in NYC from July through October, with peak activity during August and September. Infected mosquitoes can spread WNV to people through a bite. Two human cases have been reported, in Brooklyn and Queens

www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/about…

4) “Use an EPA registered insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, especially when outside at dusk and dawn when the types of mosquitoes are most active.

5) “In addition, stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in the water by emptying outdoor containers that hold water or calling 311 if you see standing water that you cannot empty.”

6) Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms or develop fever & symptoms including headache, fever, muscle aches, & extreme fatigue. While majority of infected with WNV will go on to fully recover from their illness, some continue to have problems months after infection. 👀

7) In addition, some (~1 in 150), especially >60 years or with weakened immune system, can develop a serious potentially fatal illness of brain & spinal cord called West Nile neuroinvasive disease leading to changes in mental status and muscle weakness requiring hospitalization.

8) More than 20 years ago West Nile virus was first detected in New York City. Over the past decade, an average of 16 (range 6-30) peoplehave been diagnosed with WNND per year in NYC; their median age was 62 years and the case fatality rate was 14% (23 deaths).

9) to be clear, the 14% case fatality is among those with WNND brain 🧠 disease. But most people don’t develop it. Most are asymptomatic — but many people are at risk if infection spreads. www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/about…