Monday, August 13, 2012
Oxford County Public Health and Emergency Services
Mosquito Pool in Tillsonburg Tests Positive For West Nile Virus
A third mosquito pool in Oxford County has tested positive for West Nile virus, this time in Tillsonburg. West Nile virus was previously confirmed in mosquito pools in Woodstock in early August and in Ingersoll in July.
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is reporting an increase in cases of West Nile virus in mosquito pools across the province, as well as probable and confirmed cases of the virus in people.
In Oxford County, Public Health & Emergency Services is increasing mosquito surveillance and larvaciding public catch basins to help control the mosquito population.
Public Health reminds people to protect against mosquito bites by using a bug spray with DEET and wearing light-coloured clothing, long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. People should also reduce mosquito breeding grounds around the home by not allowing outside water to stand for more than seven days.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who are infected with WNV have no symptoms at all, or have a mild illness such as fever, headache, muscle weakness, and body aches. A few people experience more severe symptoms from West Nile virus, particularly seniors, immunocompromised people, and young children.
For more information, visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/health.
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