Lambton Public Health’s surveillance program has confirmed mosquitoes collected on Wednesday, Aug. 14, from a trap located in Corunna, have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
This is the first instance of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus in Lambton County this year, the health unit said in a news release. No positive human cases of West Nile have been confirmed to date in the County.
According to Public Health Ontario, there have been three reported human cases of West Nile Virus as well as 94 positive mosquito pools across the province thus far in 2024.
West Nile Virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people nfected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, skin rash, or muscle aches. Fewer than one percent of people infected with the virus become seriously ill.
To reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:
• Avoid areas with high mosquito populations.
• Take extra precautions from dusk to dawn when mosquito activity is high.
• Wear protective, light-coloured clothing.
• Use repellants containing DEET or Icaridin. Follow label instructions carefully.
To reduce mosquito breeding areas:
• Drain areas of standing or stagnant water on your property.
• Remove old tires; turn over pails, toys, and wheelbarrows.
• Change water in bird baths (at least weekly).
• Keep eaves clear to avoid trapped water.
For more information, contact the West Nile Virus information line at 519-383-3824, toll-free at 1-800-667-1839 (ext. 3824), or online at www.lambtonpublichealth.ca.