Mosquitoes Carrying Paralyzing Virus Found in the Hudson Valley

A mosquito spread virus with a potentially paralyzing symptom was found in the Hudson Valley.

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus in Westchester was confirmed by the Westchester County Department of Health.

The area surrounding the positive mosquito batch in Mount Vernon has been inspected by the health department, which treated the area in hopes of stopping more breeding.

“West Nile Virus has been present in the Hudson Valley for many years, so this season’s first positive should remind residents to protect themselves and their families by removing standing water around their homes every week and by using repellents daily when spending significant time outdoors,” Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino said.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus usually occurs three to 14 days after being bitten. Symptoms include high fever, headache, confusion, muscle aches, weakness, seizures or in severe cases paralysis.

Recently, an Arizona man woke up paralyzed from the waist down after being infected by West Nile Virus, reports CBS.

People over the age of 50 have the highest risk for a severe symptom, health officials say. Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus will not show any symptoms.

Mosquitos like to breed in buckets, plant pot saucers, clogged gutters, pet bowls, old tires, children’s pools and toys, officials say.

To reduce your risk, health officials recommend minimizing time outdoors at dawn and dusk and applying bug spray.

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