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Sarnia, ON – Confirmed tests received today indicate that two more dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus. Both birds were found in Sarnia on September 5, 2008.
“Despite cooler night-time temperatures, the current mosquito season is not over and the risk of human infection will be present until the first heavy frost,” said Dr. Greensmith, acting Medical Officer of Health for the County of Lambton. “Residents are still urged to take precautions to prevent personal exposure to mosquitoes and to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their properties.”
To reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:
- Avoid areas with high mosquito populations
- Take extra precautions from dusk to dawn when mosquito activity is high
- Wear protective light-coloured clothing
- Use insect repellents containing DEET (follow label instructions carefully)
To reduce mosquito breeding areas:
- Remove old tires, turn over pails, toys and wheelbarrows
- Change water in bird baths (at least weekly)
- Keep eave troughs clear to avoid trapped water
West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The majority of people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, skin rash or muscle aches. Less than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill.
This year to date, there have been no human cases of West Nile virus reported in Lambton County and none of the mosquitoes trapped have tested positive. There has been one human case confirmed in Ontario so far for 2008.
In an effort to track the West Nile virus in Lambton County, the public is still encouraged to report the sighting of ALL dead birds to the Community Health Services Department by calling 519 383-3824, toll free at 1-800-667-1839 ext. 3824, or online at www.lambtonhealth.on.ca.
For more information about Lambton County, visit www.lambtononline.ca
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Contact:
Chad Ikert
Supervisor, Environmental Health and Prevention Services
County of Lambton
Telephone: 519 383-8331 ext. 3507
email: chad.ikert@county-lambton.on.ca
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