Chatham-Kent (CK) Public Health is reporting that a mosquito trap in Tilbury has tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
CK Public Health said it has received laboratory confirmation that mosquitoes collected on September 15 in Tilbury tested positive for the virus.
"These are the first positive mosquitoes identified from this trap this season," said officials at the local health unit.
The West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms, however, some may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. Officials noted in rare cases, infected individuals may experience more severe illness, including stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and paralysis.
They added that anyone with severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness, CK Public Health said.
The West Nile Virus is a risk anytime mosquitoes bite, the health unit said, and officials are asking the public to protect themselves and their family by doing the following:
• Wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks
• Using insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin (follow the label directions)
• Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn
• Ensuring that all door and window screens are tight and free of holes
• Eliminating sources of standing water on your property to prevent mosquito breeding.
Click here for more information on West Nile Virus or call CK Public Health at 519-352-7270.
