The Halton Region has confirmed a third case of West Nile in Halton.
The diagnosed resident lives in Burlington. The Halton Region Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hamidah Meghani, had this to say about the new case:
“Halton Region Public Health continues to reduce the risk of West Nile virus in our community through education and preventative programs, such as larviciding. Until the fall frost, residents should keep using bug spray, remove standing water and avoid areas where mosquitoes are present. While 80% of people infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms, others will have symptoms consisting of fever, headache, muscle ache and a rash. These symptoms are very similar to illnesses such as COVID-19, so it is important for residents seek medical assessment.”
The first two cases of the year were Oakville-residents. There have been batches of mosquitoes found within Milton with the virus, but no Milton-resident has been confirmed to have West Nile.
Residents are encouraged to take the following steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes:
- Urban areas are more likely to have mosquitoes that carry WNV. Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home at least once a week by getting rid of water in containers and objects such as wheelbarrows, tires, plant pots, old toys, plastic pails and wading pools;
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes are known to be present such as wooded areas, golf courses or gardens, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active;
- If you are going to areas where mosquitoes are active, cover up by wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly woven fabric;
- Use a mosquito repellent (bug spray) containing DEET or Icaridin;
- Make sure your window and door screens are tight and without holes, cuts or other openings;
- Change the water in bird baths at least once per week.
myFM News recently spoke with the Health Department about West Nile symptoms, how to get tested, and more. Find that here.
(Picture courtesy of Kranich17)
