Mosquito pool near Alliston tests positive for West Nile virus

A mosquito pool near Alliston has tested positive for the West Nile virus.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit says one of their traps set in the Alliston area came back positive for the virus. This is the first confirmed report of West Nile in the Simcoe-Muskoka region.

“Finding positive mosquitoes is a reminder that we need to continue to take appropriate measures to protect ourselves against West Nile virus at this time of year,” said Marina Whelan, manager of health hazards for the health unit in a statement. “The best way to protect ourselves is to prevent mosquito bites.”

The health unit is recommending that people use mosquito repellent, wear light coloured clothing and to cover up when outdoors. Residents are also asked to stay indoors between dusk and dawn and to remove standing water near homes and cottages.

Health officials say most people won’t become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito, but the virus can cause severe illness. Symptoms of West Nile include fever, muscle weakness, and sensitivity to light.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms and is concerned they may have contracted West Nile should speak with a doctor.

The health unit says they will continue to monitor mosquito pools throughout Simcoe-Muskoka.