A pool of mosquitoes collected from Caledonia last week tested positive for West Nile virus.
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The Haldimand-Norfolk Heath Unit does testing through its West Nile virus surveillance program.
West Nile is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, which can transmit the virus after feeding on the blood of infected birds.
The health unit said residents should take these precautions to help protect themselves from West Nile virus:
- Use insect repellent when outdoors. Choose a repellent that contains DEET or other approved ingredients and always read and follow the directions on the label.
- Minimize your time outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Cover up. Wear light-colored clothing, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat to go outside when mosquitoes are most active.
- Remove all standing water around your property to reduce mosquito breeding sites. Examples of standing water include flowerpots, wading pools and old tires. Change water in birdbaths and pet bowls regularly.
While many people infected with the virus have no symptoms, some my have flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe illness resulting in hospitalization and death. Symptoms usually develop between two and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
The chances of getting West Nile virus from an infected mosquito are low. While anyone can become infected, the risk of severe illness increases with age.
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