As cooler temperatures begin to settle across the region, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents that mosquito season is not over and neither is the risk of West Nile virus.
The health unit says mosquitoes remain active until the first hard frost, prompting officials to urge people to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites well into the fall.
The warning comes after a human case of West Nile virus was reported in Simcoe County. The virus has also been detected in five birds and one horse, indicating it is actively circulating in the community.
According to the health unit, the number of infections is likely higher than reported because many people who contract West Nile virus experience no symptoms or do not seek medical attention.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus circulates naturally between birds and certain mosquito species. People can become infected when bitten by a mosquito that has previously fed on an infected bird.
While most people infected with West Nile virus do not become sick, the health unit warns that some cases can be severe.
Symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Muscle weakness
- Stiff neck
- Severe headache
- Confusion
- Sensitivity to light
Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to seek medical care.
How to reduce your risk
The SMDHU recommends several steps to help prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection:
- Use an insect repellent approved for use in Canada and follow label directions.
- Wear light-coloured clothing and cover exposed skin with long sleeves, long pants, socks and a hat when mosquitoes are present.
- Remove standing water around your property to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
- Ensure window and door screens are in good condition to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
The health unit continues to monitor mosquito activity across Simcoe Muskoka through trapping, testing and larval surveillance programs throughout the summer months.
Residents looking for more information about West Nile virus and local surveillance data can visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit's website.
