West Nile Virus found in Tavistock mosquito trap

Southwestern Public Health finds positive mosquito trap during routine testing

Southwestern Public Health has confirmed that a local mosquito trap has tested positive for West Nile Virus. The trap was located in the Town of Tavistock. This is the first mosquito trap this year to produce a positive test in the Southwestern Public Health region.

“We have several 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,” says Amy Pavletic, Program Manager, Environmental Health at Southwestern Public Health.

Public health recommends removing standing water around your property to reduce places where mosquitos can breed. 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

The majority of 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.

About Southwestern Public Health

Southwestern Public Health works with its partners to ensure the health of the whole community. Our programs respond to public health emergencies; promote healthy lifestyles; help prevent injuries, illness and disease in the community; and promote positive change and social conditions that improve health. Southwestern Public Health delivers mandated programs under the Ontario Public Health Standards and is regulated by the Ontario Health Promotion and Protection Act. The health unit maintains primary locations in Woodstock and St. Thomas. For more information, visit www.swpublichealth.ca.

Contacts

Natalie Rowe Communications | Southwestern Public Health 519-631-9900 x 1215 | 1-800-922-0096 nrowe@swpublichealth.ca