Description of the situation
10 September 1999
Disease Outbreak Reported
An outbreak of St. Louis encephalitis (SLE), a viral infection transmitted by mosquitos, has been reported for the first time in New York City. Of the 9 cases confirmed by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) laboratory in Fort Collins, Colorado, 3 have died. Another 48 cases await laboratory confirmation.
Mosquito control measures, including spraying of affected areas (mainly Queens and south and east Bronx), are being carried out and may be extended to cover the entire city. Active surveillance for human cases and mosquitos is ongoing.