West Nile Fever

Clear→ stable

Vector-borne

Current NYS Status

32 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~27.

2024 statewide cases: 32

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

West Nile Fever is the mild symptomatic form of West Nile Virus infection. About 1 in 5 people infected with WNV develop this febrile illness. NYS had 32 cases in 2024. It is distinct from the more severe neuroinvasive form (meningitis, encephalitis) which occurs in fewer than 1% of infections.

How it spreads

Transmitted by the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes, most active at dusk and dawn during summer and fall. Not spread person-to-person.

Symptoms

Fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes a skin rash or swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms usually last 3–6 days and resolve on their own without treatment.

Who is at risk?

Anyone can develop West Nile Fever after mosquito exposure. Adults over 50 and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk that their infection will progress to the more serious neuroinvasive disease.

What you can do

🛡Use EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors during mosquito season

🛡Wear long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn

🛡Eliminate standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding

⚕️Seek medical care if symptoms are severe or include neurological changes such as confusion or weakness

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: summer

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.