Health officials warn residents after positive West Nile virus testing in bird and mosquito pool

Health officials warn residents about the risks after positive West Nile virus testing in Simcoe Muskoka.

Health officials are warning residents about the risk of potentially serious illness after a bird in Barrie and a mosquito pool in New Tecumseth tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv).

“These positive results are in addition to the positive test in a bird in the municipality of Bradford West Gwillimbury during the month of July and a positive mosquito pool reported last week in New Tecumseth,” the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) added.

The health unit confirmed no human cases of the virus have been reported this year. “However, the health unit is reminding the public that an increase in virus among birds and mosquitos presents a higher likelihood that the virus can spread to humans.”

WNv is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, which becomes a carrier after feeding on an infected bird.

“Positive test results are a reminder that we all need to continue to take appropriate measures to protect ourselves against WNv at this time of year, and the best way to do this is by protecting yourself from mosquito bites,” health officials stated.

SMDHU encourages residents to take precautions to avoid being bitten by an infected mosquito, including wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants, particularly in areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent, and staying indoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Health experts say while most people bitten by infected mosquitoes won’t show symptoms, the virus can lead to serious illness in some. Typical symptoms include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, and sudden sensitivity to light, and very rarely, can cause severe neurological issues.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice.