HURON COUNTY – Huron Perth Public Health is reminding residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites following confirmation that mosquitoes collected from a trap in Goderich tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).
This is the first positive mosquito finding of the season for Huron County.
“It’s not surprising to see positive mosquito pools in the month of August,” said Dale Lyttle, senior public health inspector.
“In the late summer months, people are at greatest risk of contracting West Nile Virus, so it is important to protect yourself while outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.”
The Health Unit has been trapping and testing mosquitoes in locations across Huron and Perth since June 10. Homeowners are reminded to check their properties for areas of standing water and remove them to prevent breeding areas for mosquitoes.
In Ontario, one probable or confirmed human case of WNV has been reported so far this year. Not everyone who is bitten by an infected mosquito will show symptoms of the virus. Of those who do show symptoms, most will experience mild illness, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and rash on chest, stomach or back. About one in 150 people infected will get seriously ill, with symptoms like high fever, muscle weakness, vision loss and coma. WNV can lead to death.
Symptoms usually develop between two and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. People older than 50 are most at risk for WNV infection as are those with weakened immune systems.
People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by:
- Using an insect repellent when outdoors containing DEET or Icaridin. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
- Covering up with light-colored clothes, long sleeves and pants when outdoors or in areas where mosquito activity is high.
- Taking extra protection measures at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Removing standing water around the home at least once a week to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
