New York City has reported its first human case of West Nile virus in 2026, according to the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The infected individual lives within the five boroughs but contracted the virus after spending time outdoors at several locations outside the city.
The diagnosis comes as mosquito surveillance has detected a significant presence of the virus across the city. Health officials said they have found more than 1,000 mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus since mid-June, with infected mosquitoes identified in all five boroughs. The city's health department has treated areas where infected mosquitoes were found.
According to the department, mosquito-borne transmission of West Nile virus occurs annually in New York City from June through October, with peak activity typically occurring during August and September. Officials noted that the current sample counts show nearly double the positive mosquito batches recorded at the same point last summer.
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control reported 222 human infections of West Nile virus so far in 2026, with cases concentrated largely in Arizona, Texas and California. The CDC's earlier count showed 22 human cases across the United States.
City health officials have increased mosquito surveillance and control programs in response to the virus's presence. The department is reminding residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Officials recommended wearing insect repellent, covering up during dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes are most active, and eliminating standing water around homes where mosquitoes breed.
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