New York faces growing concern over an invasion of mosquitoes, a situation that will intensify starting April 11. By 2026, the risks are not limited to bites but also affect public health.
The Department of Health warns about mosquito surveillance and control from April 1 to October 31. Since 1999, the West Nile virus has appeared annually in local mosquitoes. In 2025, for the first time, the Jamestown Canyon virus was identified in mosquitoes, although no human infections were recorded.
The proliferation of mosquitoes is influenced by heat and humidity. Even small amounts of standing water, such as in buckets or pots, can serve as breeding grounds.
The city warns that at high temperatures, mosquitoes can reproduce in standing water for more than five days.
Climate change is a relevant factor. According to the CDC, warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation favor the transmission of diseases by insects.
Proliferation of mosquitoes
A study indicates that in the state of New York, rising temperatures have extended the West Nile virus season by almost a month over the past 25 years.
The West Nile virus remains the main concern in New York, with thousands of positive mosquito batches detected each year. In 2025, 1,378 positive batches and 16 human neuroinvasive cases were reported. The presence of the Jamestown Canyon virus in mosquitoes was a novelty, although without human cases.
To control the situation, New York implements measures such as traps and weekly mosquito analyses. The Department of Health inspects numerous sewers, applying larvicides when necessary. There are approximately 150,000 water collection sewers that are reviewed each season.
Strategies include the use of aerial larvicides with helicopters in natural areas and adulticides with trucks in high-risk areas. In 2025, Dr. Michelle Morse, Health Commissioner, emphasized the importance of protecting the population during the summer.
Eliminating standing water remains the most effective measure. Checking common places like pot saucers or gutters weekly can prevent breeding grounds. Residents should discuss these issues, especially if they live in buildings with yards or terraces.
Personal protection is crucial, especially during dawn and dusk. EPA-approved repellents, such as DEET and picaridin, are recommended, along with clothing that covers the skin and mosquito nets. The EPA emphasizes the importance of applying repellents correctly.
