Seneca County Health Department
News Release
9/16/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
West Nile Virus Confirmed in Seneca County
Waterloo, NY – The Seneca County Health Department has been informed by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) of a confirmed case of West Nile virus (WNV) in a horse from Seneca County. This is the first-ever confirmed equine case of West Nile virus in Seneca County.
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can be transmitted to humans, horses, birds and other animals. While horses cannot spread the virus to people or other animals, their infections serve as a reminder that mosquitoes are still active this time of year and that mosquito bites pose a risk to the community.
“While West Nile virus cases in horses do not pose a direct threat to people, they signal that there is enough of the virus present in our environment for mosquitoes to potentially transmit the illness to residents,” said Scott King, Seneca County Director of Public Health. “Residents should take precautions to protect both themselves and their animals from mosquito bites when they head outdoors to enjoy the warm weather.”
Recommendations for Residents
- Use insect repellent, being sure to read the label and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
- Limit outdoor activities during the peak mosquito hours around dawn and dusk, when the air is calm and mosquitoes are most active.
- Check the screens in your windows and doors. Make sure the screens do not have rips, tears, or holes.
- Eliminate standing water around your property: Empty water from buckets, gutters, and other containers where mosquitoes can breed.
- Protect horses and livestock: Talk with your veterinarian about vaccination and mosquito control measures to reduce risk.
Most people infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms or will only experience mild symptoms such as fever, mild headache, body ache, and fatigue (cold and flu-like symptoms). However, the virus can cause severe illness in some individuals, especially older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Anyone who experiences symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle weakness, confusion, or tremors should seek immediate medical attention.
For more information about West Nile Virus, please visit: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/west_nile_virus/.
