It is the first time the virus has been confirmed in the region since 2018. “In our service area this year, there have been no confirmed cases of people infected with the virus or mosquitoes carrying the virus,” Jon Groulx, director of the Public Health Division of Health Protection, said in a news release. “However, this positive bird reminds us that even though the overall risk of a person becoming infected is low, the virus is still present … Therefore, it is important to take precautions to avoid becoming infected with West Nile virus.” West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes transmit the virus by feeding on infected birds. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms, while others may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, mild rash and swollen lymph nodes. In very rare cases, the health unit said the infection can affect the central nervous system and cause severe symptoms. “Late summer is usually the time of greatest risk for West Nile virus infection,” Public Health said. “Mosquitoes can carry higher levels of the virus at this time, and this is when people may not be as careful about protecting themselves from mosquito bites.” To protect you and your family, the health unit advises residents to: • Install or repair monitors. Some mosquitoes like to go indoors. Keep them out by having well-placed screens on all your windows and doors. • Remove standing water from your home where mosquitoes can breed. • Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outside, especially from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Anyone concerned about a dead bird can contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at -866-673-4781. For more information, call 705-522-9200, toll free 1-866-522-9200 or click here.
