The Middlesex London Health Unit is reminding people to protect themselves from mosquito bites after a mosquito found in a trap in Glencoe tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
It's the first time this year that a mosquito found in a local trap tested positive for the virus.
“We’ve had an abundance of rainfall this summer, resulting in increased mosquito breeding and higher populations in some areas, so it is important to remain vigilant and protect yourself and family members from mosquito bites.” said Jeremy Hogeveen, Vector-Borne Disease Coordinator with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Cover exposed skin with light-coloured clothing, wear an insect repellant that contains DEET and avoid the outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Simple steps taken to reduce standing water around homes and cottages will also help to reduce mosquito populations in the community.”
According to the health unit, 80 per cent of people who contract the West Nile Virus do not become sick. But for those that do, they usually experience mild flu-like symptoms. Fewer than one per cent become seriously ill.
