The CK Public Health Department has confirmed that mosquitoes collected on August 1st, 2023, from a trap in the North West Chatham region have tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
This marks the second instance of a positive mosquito trap for the virus within Chatham-Kent this season.
West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While some individuals infected with the virus may not display any symptoms, others may experience mild effects such as fever, headaches, body aches, and fatigue.
Protect yourself and your family by:
Wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks
Using insect repellent containing DEET (follow the label directions)
Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn)
Ensuring that all door and window screens are tight and free of holes
Eliminating sources of standing water on your property to prevent mosquito breeding
For more information on West Nile Virus, please visit http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/wn-no/index-eng.php or call CK Public Health at 519.355.1071.