Huron County, ON – With the last long weekend of the summer upon us, the Huron County Health Unit is reminding everyone to protect themselves against West Nile Virus.
West Nile Virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus may experience no symptoms or they may have flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, stiff neck, weak muscles, mild rash, or swollen glands.
The Huron County Health Unit traps mosquitoes weekly from the middle of June to early fall, and has them identified and tested. As of Friday, August 26, no mosquitoes trapped in Huron County have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
“Mosquito activity decreases with cooler temperatures,” says Keshia Hackett, Public Health Inspector. “However, until a significant frost event occurs, the health unit is reminding everyone to take some simple precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”
If you are going to be outdoors, protect yourself:
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, light in colour and made of a tightly woven material.
- Try to minimize the time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are more active.
- Refrain from using perfumes, colognes, scented shampoos, conditioners and deodorant.
- Wear insect repellent approved by Health Canada and remember to follow manufacturer’s directions.
Property owners are reminded to clean up areas where mosquitoes like to breed. It is important to get rid of standing water around your home on a regular basis. Standing water can be found in bird baths, old tires, barrels, flower pot saucers, or even unused children’s toys. Home owners are also reminded to check screens in windows and doors to ensure they fit tightly and have no holes.
For more information on West Nile Virus and Lyme disease, and ways to protect yourself, visit www.huronhealthunit.ca.
-30-
Creating Healthy Communities Together