West Nile Virus
First, the good news… no human cases reported in Canada so far in 2017.
Be vigilant – infected mosquitoes have been detected in Ottawa and Toronto this week.
West Nile Virus spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes. The “high” season starts in July. Remember, mosquitoes reproduce in stagnant water – even if there is a small amount.
What to do?
Take the follow precautions:
- Use insect repellent than contains DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus
- Apply to exposed skin – do not use insect repellent on children < 6 months old
- If you are outdoors at the end of the day, wear light-coloured long-sleeves shirts and pants
- Install screens on windows
- Eliminate water that accumulates outdoors – ie. Buckets and barrels
- Maintain swimming pools – avoid water collected on covers
Cover garbage cans.
