Another mosquito trap has tested positive for West Nile virus in Chatham-Kent.
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CK Public Health issued a media release Tuesday morning that it has received confirmation that mosquitoes collected Aug. 13 from a trap in Ridgetown have tested positive for the virus
These are the first positive pools identified from the mosquito trap in Ridgetown this season, the health unit said.
Positive pools have also been confirmed in Dresden on Aug. 7 and in Wheatley on July 3, the health unit has previously reported.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, the health unit said.
Many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms. 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.
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Anyone with severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, the health unit said. Older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
West Nile Virus is a risk anytime mosquitoes bite. The health unit said you can protect yourself and your family by:
- Wearing light-colored 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
Weekly data from the health unit’s West Nile virus surveillance program can be found at https://ckphu.com/health-topics/thegreatoutdoors
For more information on West Nile Virus can be found online at www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/west-nile-virus.html or by calling CK Public Health at 519-355-1071.
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