A Westchester County resident has tested positive for West Nile virus, the county's first confirmed human case of the mosquito-borne illness in 2026.
First West Nile virus case reported
The confirmed case involves a Yonkers resident who recently traveled outside Westchester County, according to the Westchester County Department of Health.
Health officials are working with the resident to determine whether the exposure occurred during travel or closer to home.
“This first case of West Nile virus is a reminder to take precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes,” Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said.
West Nile virus most often causes a mild or moderate flu-like illness, but it can cause more serious illness, particularly in people 65 and older and those
with underlying medical conditions.
How to protect against mosquitoes
Health officials are reminding residents to eliminate standing water around their homes, where mosquitoes can breed.
Residents should check flowerpot drip trays, kiddie pools, play equipment and other outdoor items for standing water, particularly after rainfall. People also should use insect repellent when spending time outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
Residents who see large areas of standing water on public property can report them to the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000.
Throughout the mosquito season, county health officials trap and test mosquitoes to monitor the presence of viruses they carry.
For more information and additional ways to reduce mosquito breeding areas, visit the Westchester County Department of Health's West Nile virus page.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Westchester reports first human West Nile virus case of 2026
