The report of a local human case of West Nile Virus (WNV), and the discovery of six new mosquito traps containing bugs that tested positive for the disease, has the Middlesex-London Health Unit reminding the community that mosquitoes are still biting. While the Health Unit reports that the infected individual has shown no symptoms of the virus, their diagnosis combined with finding more West Nile Virus-positive mosquitoes is significant. The half dozen traps are located in areas that cover parts of London and central and western Middlesex County, suggesting mosquito populations capable of spreading West Nile Virus are widespread.
Roughly 80 percent of those who become infected do not show signs or symptoms of West Nile Virus. Of the 20 percent of those who do become ill, most usually experience mild flu-like symptoms, but fewer than one percent of individuals infected with West Nile Virus can become seriously ill and may develop encephalitis or meningitis.
“By late August, we tend to think of summer as being over, however, the local case of West Nile Virus and the infected mosquitoes remind us of the need to remain vigilant for one of summer’s more annoying insects,” says Dr. Alex Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health at the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We still need to think about protecting ourselves and our family members from mosquito bites. That means wearing long sleeved, light-coloured shirts and long pants, using mosquito repellants that contain DEET and draining standing water from wherever it collects, including flower pots, planters, and children’s toys.”
In addition to taking steps to reduce and repel mosquitoes, the Health Unit also advises that homeowners check the screens on windows and doors to make sure they are in good repair and free of tears or holes. It’s also a good idea, where possible, to seal up garden sheds and garages to prevent over-wintering mosquitoes from finding refuge during the fall and winter months. For more information about West Nile Virus, please visit www.healthunit.com/vector-borne-diseases-west-nile-virus.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-663-5317 ext. 2469 or 519-617-0570
Spokesperson:
Dr. Alex Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit