Aylmer Mosquito Trap Tests Positive for West Nile
August 1, 2023
Aylmer Mosquito Trap Tests Positive for West Nile Virus
Southwestern Public Health has confirmed that a local mosquito trap has tested positive for West Nile Virus.
Southwestern Public Health has confirmed that a local mosquito trap has tested positive for West Nile Virus. The trap was located in Aylmer. This is the first mosquito trap to produce a positive test in the Southwestern Public Health region in 2023.
“We have mosquito traps set up across Oxford County, Elgin County, and the City of St. Thomas to monitor and test for the presence of West Nile Virus in our region. West Nile Virus was detected as part of our routine testing,” says Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health.
Public health recommends removing standing water around your property to reduce mosquito breeding environments. Additional ways to protect yourself and your family include:
- use DEET-based repellents to prevent mosquito bites and following directions for use, especially around children
- wear light coloured clothing with long sleeves, pants and socks in areas where mosquitoes are present, especially at dusk and dawn when they are most active
- repair holes in screens, windows and doors
- empty standing water regularly around your property, such as from pool covers, toys, flowerpots, garbage cans, and any other outdoor object that can collect water
- change water in bird baths every other day
- keep pool pumps circulating
- install screens to cover the opening of rain barrels
Most people (80%) who become infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do usually experience mild flu-like symptoms. Fewer than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill. Contact your primary care provider if you exhibit flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito.
For more information, visit www.swpublichealth.ca/wnv .
Contact
Megan Cornwell
Communications Manager| Southwestern Public Health
communications@swpublichealth.ca