A second mosquito trap has been confirmed with West Nile virus by Huron Perth Public Health.
Just one week after the virus was confirmed in a mosquito in Mitchell, health officials say mosquitoes collected from a trap in St. Marys tested positive for West Nile Virus.
“It’s not surprising to see positive mosquito pools in the month of August,” says Kaitlyn Kelly, Public Health Inspector.
“The second positive mosquito report serves as a reminder that WNV is present in our communities and it is important to reduce your risk of exposure to mosquitoes and protect yourself against bites.”
While two cases of West Nile Virus have been confirmed in mosquitoes this year in Huron and Perth counties, health officials say no cases of virus have been contracted by residents of Ontario.
Symptoms usually develop between two and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
To protect yourself from mosquito bites, health officials recommend:
- Using an insect repellent when outdoors containing DEET or Icaridin. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
- Covering up with light-coloured clothes, long sleeves and pants when outdoors or in areas where mosquito activity is high.
- Taking extra protection measures at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Removing standing water around the home at least once a week to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.