Recent surveillance by Southeast Public Health (SEPH) has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) positive mosquitoes in the Belleville area. This is the first mosquito pool to test positive for the virus in the region this year. In addition, two black crows in the SEPH region tested positive for the virus during the week of July 13.
As part of its ongoing surveillance program, SEPH operates mosquito monitoring traps at multiple locations throughout the region. Mosquitoes collected from these traps are routinely tested for West Nile virus to help monitor local activity and assess the risk to the public.
About West Nile virus
WNV is a virus that is mostly found in birds and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can pick up the virus when they bite an infected bird. WNV is spread to humans and animals through bites by infected mosquitoes.
Early symptoms of WNV can include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, sudden sensitivity to light, tremours, numbness, or vision loss. The majority of infected individuals have mild symptoms or none at all. In severe cases, WNV can cause inflammation of the brain known as encephalitis. If individuals believe they are experiencing early symptoms of WNV, they are encouraged to contact their health-care provider.
Mosquitoes that may be carrying WNV typically appear in July, peak in numbers by mid-August, and decline significantly by the end of August. During these times it is recommended that residents are diligent about protecting themselves and their family.
“The recent identification of West Nile virus in local mosquito populations, along with the recent detection of the virus in two birds, serves as an important reminder for residents across the region to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites around their homes,” says Kim McCann, Manager of Environmental Health at SEPH.
Protect yourself and your family
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. If residents need to be outside during this time, they are encouraged to wear light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants, socks and a hat, and use an insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin. Because mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, removing any sources of standing water, such as from small pools and birdbaths, will help reduce the mosquito population. Also, ensuring that windows and doors have screens will help keep mosquitos outside.
If residents encounter a dead bird or other dead animal on their property, they are advised not to handle it with bare hands, as it could be carrying a pathogen, such as WNV. Public Health recommends that dead birds or animals be buried using a shovel and gloves, at a depth of at least 50 centimetres (about one and a half feet), in an area that will not be disturbed.
For more information visit our West Nile virus page.
