Parry Sound area horse tests positive for West Nile virus

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is reminding residents to take precautions against West Nile Virus after a positive case was confirmed in a local horse. One of the health unit sites is shown in this undated image. (File photo/Supplied)

A horse in the Parry Sound district has tested positive for West Nile virus, according to a report from Public Health Ontario received by the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.

“The five-year-old unvaccinated horse developed signs of West Nile virus Aug. 21, and is improving after receiving treatment,” said the health unit in a news release Sept. 2.

Health officials said the confirmation of West Nile virus in the horse indicates local mosquitoes may be spreading the infection. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. The virus is transmitted to humans only through the bite of an infected mosquito.

The positive test in Parry Sound follows a recent confirmation by Public Health Sudbury & Districts that a crow from Espanola was also infected with West Nile virus.

Symptoms and risks

In some cases, West Nile virus may cause symptoms including:

• rapid onset of a severe headache,
• high fever,
• stiff neck,
• nausea or vomiting,
• difficulty swallowing,
• drowsiness and
• confusion.

Symptoms of West Nile virus are usually mild and appear within two to 15 days after infection. Most individuals – 70 to 80 per cent – infected with the virus do not have any symptoms.

“In rare cases, however, more severe outcomes affecting the brain and nervous system are possible, particularly in those who have weakened immune systems, including elderly people,” said the health unit.

Treatment

There is no vaccine available to humans for West Nile virus, but symptoms can be treated.

“If you experience symptoms and are concerned, seek medical attention,” the health unit advised.

Infection prevention

According to health officials, mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. The health unit has advised people to take protective measures to reduce their risk of exposure, including:

• Wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeves, pants, socks and shoes.
• Using bug spray containing DEET or Icaridin.
• Installing or repairing window and door screens.
• Eliminating any standing water on your property so mosquitoes cannot breed.

For more information on the virus, visit myhealthunit.ca/westnile.