Don’t get bit by a mosquito, or you could get the West Nile Virus.
Earlier today, Huron Perth Public Health put up a reminder, asking you to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
This reminder comes after some mosquitos were collected from traps in Mitchell and Listowel, with the health unit confirming these mosquitos tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
According to Public Health Ontario, this virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, adding that most people infected by it don’t show symptoms.
Huron Perth Public Health says of those who show symptoms, “most will experience mild illness, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and rash on chest, stomach or back.”
“About 1 in 150 people infected will get seriously ill, with symptoms like high fever, muscle weakness, vision loss and coma,” said Huron Perth Public Health.
“WNV can lead to death.”
The health unit says symptoms usually develop within 2 to 15 days after being bitten, with those over the age of 50 and those with weaker immune systems the most at risk of getting the virus.
Senior Public Health Inspector Dale Lyttle says people are the most at risk in the late summer months.
“It is important to protect yourself while outdoors when mosquitoes are most active,” said Lyttle.
For how to stay safe, the health unit encourages you to use an insect repellent when outdoors containing DEET or Icaridin, cover up with light-colored clothes, long sleeves and pants when outside, take extra protection measures at dusk and dawn, and remove standing water around the home at least once a week.
