Journal staff
The first positive results for West Nile Virus have been confirmed in Lambton County, the health unit said this week.
“Lambton Public Health’s surveillance program has confirmed mosquitoes collected on Wednesday, Aug. 16 from two traps, located in Wyoming and Sarnia, have tested positive for West Nile Virus,” a news release noted, adding that there have been no positive human cases of the virus, locally, to date.
According to Public Health Ontario, there have been two reported human cases of West Nile Virus, and114 positive mosquito pools across the province thus far in 2023.
West Nile is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, and most people infected 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.