Mosquito season is officially on in Rockland County, and the bugs are already testing positive for West Nile virus.
County health officials confirmed this week that the New York State Department of Health has identified Rockland’s first West Nile positive pool of mosquitoes for the season. The specimens were trapped in Haverstraw during the week of June 22 and sent for state testing on June 29.
So far, there are no reported human cases in Rockland. The county’s most recent confirmed human case was in 2025.
In a press release, the Rockland County Department of Health said the positive samples were from Culex pipiens and Cx. restuans mosquitoes and reminded residents that rising temperatures mean more activity from the insects. "Warmer weather brings increased mosquito activity and a greater risk of West Nile Virus," Rockland County Commissioner of Health Dr. Mary Leahy said in the release.
The county added that 66 mosquito pools have been submitted for testing so far this season, a number that will continue to climb as summer rolls on.
Statewide Picture
Last year was busy across New York. More than 1,700 mosquito pools tested positive statewide in 2025, according to LOHUD, citing data from the New York State Department of Health. That surge is the backdrop for Rockland’s latest alert as summer events and holidays send more people outside.
What West Nile Can Do
West Nile virus spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people never feel sick, or they experience only mild, flu-like symptoms.
Fewer than 1% of infections lead to serious neurologic disease such as encephalitis or meningitis, the CDC reports. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for severe illness.
How To Reduce Your Risk
Local officials say common sense goes a long way. Recommended steps include:
- Wearing long, loose clothing at dawn and dusk
- Using an EPA-registered insect repellent
- Checking window and door screens for holes
- Covering baby carriers with netting when outdoors
The county also urges residents to eliminate standing water, maintain or treat unused pools, and keep gutters clean, per the Rockland County Mosquito Control webpage. Cutting down on backyard breeding spots lowers the odds that mosquitoes will multiply on your property or bite family members.
Rockland is offering free Mosquito Dunks for pickup at the Health Department in Pomona by appointment. Residents can call 845-364-3173 or email [email protected] to schedule while supplies last.
Homeowners with private pools are asked to drain or treat unused pools and to avoid letting water collect on pool covers. Residents can also request inspections or report standing water to the county’s mosquito program.
When To See A Doctor
Health officials say not to shrug off serious symptoms after mosquito bites. If you develop fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors or muscle weakness, seek medical care and mention possible West Nile exposure.
The CDC recommends testing for West Nile in patients with unexplained neurologic illness during mosquito season and treating supportively. For local updates and guidance, residents can monitor the Rockland County Department of Health’s news feed.
