YSR.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been detected across several Brooklyn neighborhoods this summer, including Gravesend, East Williamsburg and Bedford Stuyvesant, as health officials report a sharp increase in positive mosquito samples across New York City.

The four neighborhoods are among numerous areas across the five boroughs where mosquitoes have tested positive for the virus during the 2026 season. Citywide, 612 mosquito pools had tested positive as of July 25, nearly twice the number recorded at the same point last year.

Despite the significant increase in infected mosquitoes, no human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in New York City so far this season. Health officials say the virus is typically most active during August and September, making the coming weeks an important period for residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who become infected do not develop symptoms, while some can experience fever, headaches, body aches, nausea and other symptoms. In rare cases, particularly among older adults and people with weakened immune systems, the virus can cause serious neurological illness.

The city has increased mosquito surveillance in affected areas, including additional trapping and mosquito-control operations. Officials say several targeted operations conducted since July have sharply reduced mosquito populations and the number of infected mosquito pools in areas where treatment was carried out.

Residents are being urged to use insect repellent when outdoors, wear clothing that covers exposed skin when mosquitoes are active, and remove standing water around homes and properties where mosquitoes can breed. Mosquitoes capable of carrying West Nile virus are generally most active between dusk and dawn.