Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus found in Picton area

Recent surveillance conducted by the South East Health Unit (SEHU) has identified the presence of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus (WNv) in the Picton area.

This is the first pool of mosquitoes that have tested positive for WNv in Prince Edward County this year, and is the second instance of the virus in the SEHU region after an American crow tested positive for the virus in Brockville in July.

“The recent identification of local mosquitoes carrying WNV, and in the infection of an American crow serve as a reminder to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce breeding sites around your home,” said Bill Sherlock, Manager of Healthy Environments for SEHU.

As part of the surveillance program, mosquito monitoring traps are set at multiple locations across the SEHU region.

About West Nile virus
WNv is an infection found in birds, and carried by mosquitoes which feed on infected birds. WNv is spread to humans and animals through bites by infected mosquitoes.

Early symptoms of WNv can include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, sudden sensitivity to light, tremors, numbness, or vision loss. The majority of infected individuals have mild symptoms or none at all. In severe cases, WNv can cause inflammation of the brain known as encephalitis. If individuals believe they are experiencing early symptoms of WNv, they are encouraged to contact their primary care provider.

Mosquitoes that may be carrying WNV typically appear in the second week of July, peak in numbers by mid-August, and decline significantly by the end of August. During these times it is recommended that residents are diligent about protecting themselves and their family.

Protect yourself and your family
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. If residents need to be outside during this time, they are encouraged to wear light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants, socks and a hat, and use an insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin. Because mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, removing any sources of standing water such as from small pools and birdbaths will help reduce the mosquito population. Also, ensuring that windows and doors are screened will help keep mosquitos outside.

If residents encounter a dead bird or other dead animal, they are advised not to handle it with bare hands, as it could be carrying WNv. Public Health recommends that dead birds or animals be buried using a shovel and gloves, at a depth of at least 50 cm (about one and a half feet), in an area that will not be disturbed. Also, Public Health should be notified if clusters of dead birds or animals are found.