For the first time this year, mosquitoes collected in Lambton County have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
Lambton Public Health (LPH) confirmed the findings on Monday after the infected mosquitoes were collected from a trap in Forest on September 7.
So far no positive human cases of West Nile have been confirmed in the county.
“Although we are heading into the fall season and our weekly monitoring is winding down, it is important to note that biting mosquitoes can pose a risk for West Nile Virus until the first hard frosts of the fall occur,” said LPH Supervisor of Health Protection Lori Lucas.
Residents are encouraged to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of contracting West Nile Virus. Precautions include avoiding areas with high mosquito populations, wearing protective and light-coloured clothing, and using repellents containing DEET or Icaridin.
Health officials said most people infected with West Nile don't get sick but those who do usually experience flu-like symptoms. LPH said fewer than one percent of people infected with the virus become seriously ill.
