For the first time in two years, the West Nile virus has been found in a mosquito trap in London.
The Middlesex London Health Unit says a trap in the area of the Sifton Bog was found to have insects inside that tested positive for the virus. The health unit said it has not identified West Nile virus positive-mosquitoes in a trap since 2018. And while much of the attention is being paid to the fight against COVID-19, the health unit says we still need to protect ourselves from the West Nile virus.
“Even as temperatures start to decrease, we want to remind residents that mosquitoes are still biting and it is important to remain vigilant in preventing those bites. We still need to think about protecting ourselves and our family members,” Middlesex-London Health Unit Vector-Borne Disease Coordinator Jeremy Hogeveen said. “You can prevent bites by covering exposed skin or using repellants that contain DEET or Icaridin.”
The health unit said it recommends making sure you empty rain gutters, flower pots, children’s toys and other areas where water can collect. It also says birdbaths should have their water changed frequently. Ornamental ponds should also have a fountain or pump to aerate the water. To protect yourself from mosquito bites, the health unit suggests avoiding the outdoors near dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. If you are going to be outside during these times, it recommends wearing light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants as well as using an insect repellant that contains DEET or Icaridin.
“The majority of people [80 per cent] who become infected with West Nile virus do not get sick,” the health unit said in a statement issued Tuesday. “Those who do become ill usually experience mild flu-like symptoms, while less than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill.”
