RyeCity REVIEW THE
September 08, 2023 | Vol. 10, Number 35 | www.ryecityreview.com
DOUBLE TROUBLE!
County confirms first positive West Nile Virus
Harrison’s Michael Olsey hauls in the game-winning pass during a Sept. 2 meeting between the Huskies and the Garnets. Olsey’s catch gave Harrison a 21-14 win—their second straight over Rye. For story, see page 16.
County Health Department issues heat advisory With extreme heat and humidity expected, and air temperatures anticipated to remain above 90 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday, the Westchester County Health Department is issuing a heat advisory. As humidity and temperatures rise, residents should avoid strenuous activity, drink lots of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and take precautions to prevent heat-related illness. To help residents cope with the climbing temperatures, Glen Island Beach in New Rochelle will be open Tuesday, September 5 until 6:30 p.m., and Wednesday, September 6 from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; last entry is 6 p.m. Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “Pace yourself – don’t overdo it in the heat. If you spend time outdoors, take breaks in an air-conditioned place and drink lots of water. And during a heat wave, remember to always check in on your elderly or ailing neighbors.” Sherlita Amler, MD, Westchester County Commissioner of Health, said people who are most vulnerable to adverse effects from the heat include the very
young, seniors, people who are obese and those with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or lung conditions. Amler said: “Heat stroke and dehydration can take you by surprise. High humidity, chronic health conditions and some medications can also increase a person’s risk for heat stroke.” Heat stroke is a serious and life-threatening condition that claims many lives nationwide each year. Symptoms include hot red, dry skin, shallow breathing, a rapid, weak pulse and confusion. Anyone suffering from heat stroke needs to receive emergency medical treatment immediately. Call 911 if you suspect heat stroke and immediately cool the overheated person while waiting for emergency help to arrive. Amler reminded residents never to leave children, pets or people alone in a car. Temperatures can quickly rise to unsafe levels, so motorists should always look before they lock their vehicles. “To avoid tragedy, it’s also vital to never leave infants, children, seniors or pets in a closed car no matter how brief the
The first case of West Nile virus was identified this year in a New Rochelle resident.
time,” Amler said. “Closed vehicles can quickly heat up to a life-threatening 140º F or more.” Another concern during a heat wave is heat exhaustion. Seniors, young children, people who are overweight or who have high blood pressure, people who work outside or in other hot environments are most at risk. Frequent breaks and drinking lots of water can help prevent heat exhaustion. Signs include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness and exhaustion, as well as cool, moist, pale or flushed skin. Anyone suffering from heat exhaustion should move out of the sun and apply cool, wet cloths to their skin. “During a heat wave, seniors, young children and people with compromised immunity especially should avoid vigorous outdoor activity, seek the shade, spend time in air-conditioned locations and drink lots of water throughout the day,” Amler said. “Especially when they’re swimming and playing in the water, children often
see COUNTY 3
Westchester County has learned of its first positive human case of West Nile Virus this year, which was confirmed in a New Rochelle resident. Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said, “This first case of West Nile Virus should remind us all to take precautions against mosquito bites by removing standing water from our property, and using repellents when we spend time outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.” West Nile Virus infection most often causes a mild or moderate flu-like illness, but can be more serious particularly for people age 60 and older, and those with other health complications. The Westchester County Department of Health evaluat-
ed standing water around the resident’s home and nearby catch basins, and treated those with larvicide as needed. Residents should inspect their property and remove any standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Residents who notice large areas of standing water on public property should report them to the Westchester County Department of Health at 813-5000. Throughout the season, the Westchester County Health Department traps and tests mosquitoes to track the presence of mosquito-borne viruses. For more ideas on how to reduce the mosquito population near your home, go to https://health.westchestergov.com/west-nile-virus