Mosquitos in Dresden trap test positive for West Nile Virus

Mosquitos that were collected in Dresden have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Chatham-Kent Public Health confirmed that mosquitoes collected from a trap in Dresden have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

This is the first positive pool identified in Chatham-Kent this season. CKPH received laboratory confirmation about the positive mosquitos collected on Aug. 25.

Weekly data is monitored in the West Nile Virus surveillance program.

Health officials say West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms. Some may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue.

In rare cases, infected individuals may experience more severe illness, including stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and paralysis. Anyone with severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.

West Nile Virus is a risk anytime mosquitoes bite. Protect yourself and your family by:

• Wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks,
• Using insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin (follow the label directions),
• Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn),
• Ensuring that all door and window screens are tight and free of holes, and
• Eliminating sources of standing water on your property to prevent mosquito breeding.

For more information on West Nile Virus is available online, or call CK Public Health at 519-352-7270.