CK Public Health has received laboratory confirmation that mosquitoes collected Sept. 15 from a trap in Tilbury have tested positive for West Nile Virus, the first positive mosquitoes identified from that trap this season.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms, while 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 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.
CK Public Health is reminding residents that West Nile Virus is a risk anytime mosquitoes bite, and is encouraging them to protect themselves and their families by wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks; using insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin; staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active, from dusk to dawn; ensuring door and window screens are tight and free of holes; and eliminating sources of standing water on their property to prevent mosquito breeding.
Residents can monitor weekly data from the West Nile Virus surveillance program online, or contact CK Public Health at 519-352-7270 for more information.
