West Nile Virus found in Wallaceburg
It was reported to the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit on July 27th, 2012 that mosquitoes collected on July 24th, 2012, from a trap located in Wallaceburg, have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
To date, no human cases of West Nile Virus have been confirmed in Chatham-Kent; however, residents are urged to use protective measures to prevent mosquitoes from biting.
PROTECTIVE MEASURES:
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants that are light-coloured while outdoors.
• Use repellent containing DEET.
• Stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn).
• Make sure that door and window screens fit securely and are free of holes.
• Eliminate any standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus include fever, fatigue, rash, confusion, swollen lymph glands and headache. Those with more severe illness may experience stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and lack of coordination or paralysis.
For more information, call the Public Health Unit at 519.352.7270 ext. 2902. Wheatley area residents may call 519-682-0803 or visit our blog site at www.ckphu.com.
Laura
July 30, 2012 at 2:59 pm
Well that just sucks. I live in a forest and it is impossible to stay away from the mosquitos. Plus I have horses, cats, a dog that cannot completely stay away from the mosquitos. Thankfully the horses have their west nile shots but I hope it won’t affect my other animals (not sure if it’s as bad for them as it is horses). Yep, totally impossible to keep the mosquitos away, really sucks. And DEET is so bad for people there’s no way I’ll use that either =/