A mosquito pool in Essex County tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to an alert issued by health officials on Wednesday.
There has not yet been a human case of the virus identified in the region, but everyone should take necessary precautions to avoid mosquitos, explained the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.
No details were provided about a more specific location of the pool, but after this first sign of West Nile in the area this year, residents are urged to rid their properties and homes of any standing water, which are mosquito havens.
Certain types of mosquitoes spread virus that cause potentially serious infections in humans.
“This first positive mosquito pool of the season is an indicator that the virus is present in our community,” the health unit wrote in its news alert.
People should use insect repellents that contain DEET, Icaridin or other approved ingredients on clothing as well as exposed skins. Other ways to avoid mosquitos:
- Make sure that door and window screens fit securely and are free of holes.
- Wear light-coloured clothing, long sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Limit the time you spend outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
The health unit and municipalities throughout the region continue to monitor for West Nile virus activity. For more information on West Nile Virus, please visit the health unit’s West Nile virus web page.
