To address the increasing risk of West Nile virus, New York City officials have begun spraying mosquito pesticides in certain parts of the Bronx and Staten Island. ABC7NY reports that the spraying will start tonight in the Bronx and on Wednesday morning in Staten Island.
While there have been no reported human cases in NYC so far in 2025, the detection of the virus in mosquitoes has propelled the city's Health Department into action. A first human case of the virus, however, has been reported in Onondaga County, hence the heightened response by the city. Residents have been advised to remain indoors during the spraying if they can, to avoid sensitivity to the pesticides. ABC7NY suggests the treatments in the Bronx will take place from 8:30 p.m. today to 6 a.m. tomorrow, and in Staten Island from 8:30 a.m. Wednesday to 6 a.m. Thursday.
Mosquito control is becoming a pressing concern with experts tracking a national escalation in West Nile virus cases. According to CBS News, Dr. Nischay Mishra, an associate professor at Columbia University Medical Center, noted an increase in cases across the United States, affirming, "There are more cases than have been identified." His remarks indicate concern as the virus's peak season, typically occurring in August and September, is still ahead.
NYC residents are asked to help prevent mosquito breeding by clearing any standing water, while the Environmental Protection Agency points to climate change as a factor increasing the risk of human exposure to the virus. Dr. Celine Grounder insists on personal protection, advising, "The key here is to use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin," in an interview with CBS News.
As summer continues, the city is maintaining efforts to monitor mosquito populations and carry out pesticide spraying to limit the spread of the virus. Human cases have been reported in several states, and NYC Health is advising residents to stay informed and follow recommended preventive measures.
