Health officials are warning the public to guard against mosquito bites after insects in three London-area traps tested positive for West Nile virus.
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Middlesex-London Health Unit announced the finding – the region’s first this year – Tuesday, saying recent rain was a contributing factor.
West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.
“There has been a lot of rainfall this summer, which means more mosquitoes in certain areas,” Jeremy Hogeveen, the unit’s vector-borne disease co-ordinator, said in a release.
“It is important to exercise caution and ensure the safety of both you and your loved ones against mosquito bites,” he said. “Wear an insect repellent that contains DEET, cover exposed skin with light-colored clothing, and try to avoid the outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.”
Hogeveen’s team monitors 23 mosquito trapping sites in London and Middlesex County weekly as part of a 17-week study that continues until September. It also treats catchbasins on public property to fight the virus.
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Most people infected with West Nile don’t get sick, but some individuals experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches and body aches and a small percentage become seriously ill.
AVOIDING WEST NILE VIRUS
- Wear light-colored clothing, including shirts with long sleeves, pants and socks, in areas where mosquitoes are present, especially at dusk and dawn when they’re most active
- Use insect repellent with DEET, especially for children, following manufacturer’s directions
- Fix holes in window and door screens
- Regularly empty standing water from garbage cans, wheelbarrows, toys, flowerpots and saucers, pool covers, tires, and other items around your home and yard
- Clean and change water in birdbaths every other day
- Ensure swimming pools are closed and opened properly
- Cover openings in rain barrels
Source: Middlesex-London Health Unit
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