On Friday, Peel Public Health confirmed its first human case of West Nile Virus for 2016. An 80 year old male Mississauga resident started showing flu-like symptoms in early-September and has tested positive for West Nile Virus.
“This first case confirms that there is West Nile activity in Peel and is a reminder to residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Paul Callanan, Director of Environmental Health at Region of Peel. “While risk of becoming infected is still low, most people who contract the disease show no symptoms, 20 per cent will experience mild flu-like symptoms, and about one in 150 is at risk of developing a more severe form of the disease.”
Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites by doing the following:
- Avoid areas with high mosquito populations and take extra precautions in the mornings and evenings when mosquito activity is highest.
- Wear light-coloured clothing that covers exposed skin, such as long sleeves, pants and a hat.
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET and apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- Remove or drain items on your property that hold still water. Water that is still for more than seven days is an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes. You can report still water sites to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or online: peel-bugbite.ca.
- Register online at: peel-bugbite.ca to receive email notifications and information about where mosquitos that have tested positive for West Nile virus found in Peel.
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