The Nassau County Department of Health (NCDOH) has confirmed a case of Chikungunya Virus in a resident of Nassau County. Health officials report that the risk to the general public remains low, as no Chikungunya Virus has been detected in local mosquito pools this season.
An investigation by NCDOH revealed that the individual developed symptoms in August and had traveled outside Nassau County during the period when infection likely occurred. However, the person did not report any international travel.
NCDOH conducts weekly mosquito surveillance during mosquito season at multiple sites throughout the county. No evidence of ongoing transmission has been found locally. According to health officials, “There is no evidence of ongoing transmission of the virus and the risk to the general public remains low.”
Chikungunya is transmitted to humans through the bite of mosquitoes infected with the virus, most commonly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Symptoms include fever, joint pain, headache, and muscle pain, which can be severe. In the United States, most cases have involved individuals who traveled to regions where the virus is common, though locally transmitted cases have been reported in recent years. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is not naturally found in New York State.
Other mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and Jamestown Canyon virus, have been detected in New York State and Nassau County in previous years. These illnesses are rare but can cause serious complications, especially in vulnerable populations. Residents are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites, particularly during mosquito season and when traveling to warmer climates where such diseases are more prevalent.
” Mosquito bites are more than just a nuisance, they can sometimes spread illnesses that affect both people and animals,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Irina Gelman. “While the 2025 mosquito season is essentially over with cooler weather in Nassau County, this case serves as a reminder to take precautions against mosquito bites during the season and when traveling to areas where mosquito-borne illnesses are present.”
To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, NCDOH recommends covering exposed skin, using EPA-approved insect repellents, ensuring window and door screens are intact, eliminating standing water around homes, and consulting healthcare providers before traveling to areas where these illnesses are common.
For more information, residents can visit the NCDOH’s Mosquito Control and Surveillance website.
