West Nile Virus Detected in Orange County Mosquitoes

Health officials are urging Orange County residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites after insects in the Greenwood Lake area tested positive for West Nile virus.

According to the New York State Department of Health, this is the first confirmed case of West Nile in mosquitoes this year across the greater Capital Region and Hudson Valley. The virus, which is spread through mosquito bites, can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Residents are advised to take precautions when outdoors, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

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