Albany County Department of Health Notified of West Nile Virus Case

Albany County Department of Health Notified of West Nile Virus CaseFirst Reported Case since 2018Post Date:09/18/2025 10:54 am The Albany County Department of Health has received confirmation that a resident of Albany County has contracted the West Nile Virus (WNV). Due to general privacy policies, no further information about the case will be released. This is Albany County's first reported case of WNV since 2018. "News like this is a reminder that while cases of West Nile Virus are rare, we must remain vigilant. 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," said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. West Nile Virus Disease is spread by the bite of a mosquito infected with the virus after they feed on infected birds. The infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to humans and other animals. In humans, WNV may cause a mild illness but may also cause encephalitis or meningitis. The disease is considered endemic (native) in New York State and is generally found in at least part of the state each summer. This year alone there have been at least seven other cases of the disease reported in Erie, Monroe, Onondaga, Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties. "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. By following the Fight the Bite steps, including using insect repellant, 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" said Albany County Department of Health Commissioner Kristen A. Navarette, MD, MPH, FAAP, DipABLM August through September is peak activity season for mosquitos, and they will remain active until the first or second hard frost, when the populations are reduced. County health officials encourage residents to protect themselves when outdoors by using an effective mosquito repellent and wearing long pants and long sleeves, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquito activity is greatest. Additionally, residents can reduce the mosquito population around their home by eliminating standing water sources. This includes disposing of used tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or similar water-holding items. For more information on precautions residents can visit https://www.albanycountyny.gov/departments/health/climate-and-health/insect-transmitted-diseases or https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/west_nile_virus/.Return to full list >>