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West Nile Virus Detected in Rockland County Mosquitoes

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NEW CITY, NY – Rockland County Health officials announce the first two pools, or groups, of mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) this year in Rockland County has been confirmed by the New York State Department of Health.

The infected mosquitoes were collected from traps in the Town of Orangetown and Town of Clarkstown during the week of June 21st as part of the County’s ongoing mosquito surveillance efforts. No human cases have been reported this season. The last human case reported in Rockland was in 2018. “This is typically the time of the year we expect to see a rise in West Nile Virus activity, and these positive mosquito pools confirm that,” said Dr. Ruppert.

Most mosquitoes do not test positive for disease-causing viruses. However, a bite from a West Nile Virus-infected mosquito can cause serious illness, and in some cases, death. Although a person’s chances of getting sick are small, those aged 50 and older are at the highest risk for serious illness. Not everyone infected with West Nile Virus will become ill. However, West Nile can cause serious complications, including neurological diseases, and can also cause a milder flu-like illness, including fever, headache and body aches, nausea, and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. If you think you have symptoms of West Nile Virus, see your doctor right away.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. The eggs hatch into larvae that develop in the water for 7 to 10 days before emerging as adult mosquitoes that fly and bite. Many types of mosquitoes, including those that can spread disease, lay their eggs in items around the home, such as in birdbaths, unused flowerpots, discarded tires, and even bottle caps, as well as in small ponds or other bodies of stagnant water. “Health Department mosquito control teams will continue to visit all known mosquito breeding sites, including sites near these positive mosquito pools. Larval control activities will continue throughout the summer,” said Dr. Ruppert.

The best and most effective mosquito control begins in your yard. Eliminating standing water is the first step in reducing mosquito breeding.

Photo credit – CDC

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We’re Back: A Note to Our Readers After Website Updates

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To our readers, we apologize for our recent absence.

Our website underwent construction and technical updates, which temporarily prevented us from publishing and, unfortunately, from notifying our readers about the work ahead of time. We understand that the lack of communication may have been confusing, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience.

The good news is that we’re back online. Our team has completed the necessary work, and this page is once again available to our readers.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we worked behind the scenes. Thank you for continuing to visit, read, and support our website.

Welcome back — and thank you for being here.

— The Editorial Team

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All American Pet Day Honors Beloved Pets and Shelter Animals Waiting for Homes

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A day to honor beloved pets while remembering the animals still waiting for homes like “Cookie”. Would someone please adopt her!

Pets have a special way of becoming part of the family. They greet us at the door, offer comfort on difficult days, bring joy through simple moments and remind us of the importance of kindness and companionship.

Today, on All American Pet Day, pet owners across the country are celebrating the dogs, cats and other animals that have become cherished members of their households. The observance is also an opportunity to recognize the countless animals in shelters that are still waiting for a place to call home.

Every year, shelters and rescue organizations care for animals in need of safety, medical attention and a second chance. Many of these pets are loving, loyal companions who simply have not yet found the right family. Some have been overlooked because of their age, size, breed, or because they may need extra patience and understanding after difficult experiences.

Shelter workers and volunteers often say that one of the most rewarding moments is watching an animal who has spent months or even years waiting finally walk out the door with a new family.

Adopting a pet is a commitment, but for those who are ready, it can be life-changing for both the animal and the adopter. Many shelters also offer opportunities to foster, volunteer, donate supplies or simply share information about animals looking for homes.

For those who already have pets, All American Pet Day is a reminder to celebrate the bond they share. A walk around the neighborhood, extra playtime, a favorite treat or a visit to the veterinarian are all ways to show appreciation for the animals who give so much unconditional love.

And for those considering adding a pet to their family, local shelters are filled with animals waiting for someone to see their potential.

Whether they have been with us for years or are still waiting behind a kennel door, every pet deserves compassion, care and a chance to be loved.

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