CK Public Health has received laboratory confirmation that mosquitoes collected July 11 from a trap in South West Chatham have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
This is the first positive mosquito trap in Chatham-Kent this season, CK Public Health officials say.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.
“Many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms,” public health officials said in a media release.
“Some may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. In rare cases, infected individuals may experience more severe illness, including stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and lack of co-ordination or paralysis. Anyone with severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.”
Public health officials say people can protect themselves and their family by:
– Wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks
– Using insect repellent containing DEET (follow the label directions)
– Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn)
– Ensuring that all door and window screens are tight and free of holes
– Eliminating sources of standing water on your property to prevent mosquito breeding
For more information on West Nile Virus, please visit http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/wn-no/index-eng.php or call CK Public Health at 519-355-1071.
