Southwestern Public Health is reporting its first positive West Nile Virus test of the season.
The health unit is confirming a mosquito trap in Aylmer produced a positive test.
The health unit advises it has traps set up across St. Thomas, Elgin and Oxford counties to test for the presence of West Nile Virus.
Southwestern Public Health recommends removing standing water around your property to reduce mosquito breeding environments.
Additional ways to protect yourself and your family include:
• use DEET-based repellents to prevent mosquito bites and following directions for use,
especially around children
• wear light coloured clothing with long sleeves, pants and socks in areas where mosquitoes
are present, especially at dusk and dawn when they are most active
• repair holes in screens, windows and doors
• empty standing water regularly around your property, such as from pool covers, toys,
flowerpots, garbage cans, and any other outdoor object that can collect water
• change water in bird baths every other day
• keep pool pumps circulating
• install screens to cover the opening of rain barrels
Most people (80%) who become infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do usually experience mild flu-like symptoms. Fewer than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill. Contact your primary care provider if you exhibit flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito.
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Written by: Ian McCallum
