General News
Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in Alliston
September 12, 2024 · 0 Comments
By Brian Lockhart
After first finding mosquitoes that tested positive for the West Nile virus in Barrie, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has now reported that mosquitoes collected from a trap in Alliston have also tested positive for the virus.
The Health Unit is encouraging residents to take precautions when around areas where mosquitoes are found.
The West Nile virus circulates between birds and some species of mosquitoes. The virus can be transmitted to humans by a mosquito bite if the mosquito has first bitten an infected bird.
The risk of contracting the virus from an infected mosquito is highest in late summer.
The Health Unit recommends following personal protection measures.
These include using an approved mosquito repellent, wearing light-coloured clothing, covering up arms and legs in areas where mosquitoes are present and staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active – especially at dusk and dawn.
While most people will not become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito, the virus can cause severe illness in some people.
Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, and a sudden sensitivity to light. In very rare cases, the virus may cause serious neurological illness.
If you experience these symptoms, you should seek medical advice.
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