While autumn has arrived, it is not time to let our guard down when it comes to something more associated with summer: mosquitoes and West Nile Virus. The Middlesex-London Health Unit is reminding local residents to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, after a trap located in the area of Sifton Bog was found to contain insects that tested positive for the virus. This trap is the first in two seasons to be found containing West Nile Virus-positive mosquitoes. The Health Unit has not identified West Nile Virus positive-mosquitoes in a trap since 2018.

“Even as temperatures start to decrease, we want to remind residents that mosquitoes are still biting and it is important to remain vigilant in preventing those bites. We still need to think about protecting ourselves and our family members,” says Jeremy Hogeveen, Vector-Borne Disease Coordinator with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “You can prevent bites by covering exposed skin or using repellants that contain DEET or Icaridin.”

In addition to taking steps to reduce and repel mosquitoes, the Health Unit also advises 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.

Other great tips to help protect yourself and your family against West Nile Virus include:

• Wearing light-coloured clothing including shirts with long-sleeves, pants and socks, in areas where mosquitoes are present, especially at dusk and dawn when they are most active.
• Following the manufacturer’s directions when using an insect repellent with DEET, especially for children.
• Fixing holes in screens, windows and doors.
• Emptying standing water from garbage cans, wheelbarrows, toys, flowerpots and saucers, pool covers, tires, and other items around your home and yard regularly.
• Cleaning and changing water in bird baths every other day.
• Ensuring that swimming pools are closed and opened properly.
• Covering openings in rain barrels.

The majority of people (80%) who become infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild flu-like symptoms; fewer than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill.

The Health Unit’s Vector-Borne Disease Team will continue its weekly mosquito monitoring
on public property until the first frost.

To learn more about personal protection and the Health Unit’s surveillance and control efforts please visit: www.healthunit.com/west-nile-virus.

Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-663-5317 ext. 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell)

Spokesperson:
Jeremy Hogeveen, Vector-Borne Disease Coordinator, Middlesex-London Health Unit