Public health officials have confirmed a mosquito pool here has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).
“Although there have been no confirmed human cases in the area this year, we know that WNV is here, and a positive pool is a good reminder to protect yourself from mosquito bites when outdoors,” said Shawn Zentner, Health Protection Manager at Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
“Erin residents aren’t at higher risk than nearby areas – positive mosquito pools have been found throughout Southern Ontario and everyone should take precautions.”
To date in the province 41 mosquito pools – a batch of mosquitoes caught in one trap and sent for testing – have tested positive for the virus and two human cases of WNV have been confirmed.
WNV is spread to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Serious cases are more likely to occur in older adults, and most people infected don’t experience any symptoms.
For those that do experience symptoms, fever, headache, body aches and fatigue are most common. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe illness, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.
Urban and rural risks
Those living in both rural and urban areas are at risk.
To help reduce the mosquito population around homes, it is important to drain stagnant bodies of water where they like to lay their eggs.
Drain water from pool covers, garbage cans, recycling bins, saucers under flower pots and old tires.
To minimize the risk of mosquito bites:
– limit the time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active;
– use an insect repellent with DEET; and
– wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants outdoors when mosquitoes are active.
