The Sudbury health unit is warning area residents to be wary of the possibility of being infected with West Nile Virus.
"Whether you are spending time in your backyard, exploring local trails, or vacationing in Ontario, getting bitten by mosquitos puts you at risk of being infected with West Nile virus," said the release from Public Health Sudbury and Districts.
The release also said the risk is low, but it is still possible.
“Although the overall risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus is low, everyone is at risk and preventing bites is important to protect yourself and your family,” said Ashley DeRocchis, an environmental support officer with Public Health Sudbury & Districts.
Citizens are advised to use an insect repellent approved by Health Canada and follow the application recommendations on the package.
Also, during the times of day when mosquitoes are most active — during dusk and dawn — people might choose to stay indoors if possible.
The health unit also advised that people can wear light-coloured clothing, including long sleeves, long pants, socks, and a hat whenever they are outdoors. Consider the use of mesh “bug jackets” or “bug hats,” the news release said.
At home, people can check their window and door screens to ensure that there are no tears or holes for mosquitoes to get through. Also, don't give the bugs a place to lay eggs.
Mosquitoes need only a small amount of calm, standing water to lay their eggs and for larvae to hatch, said PHSD.
Reduce mosquito breeding areas by changing or removing standing water at least once a week from areas such as bird baths. old tires, containers, barrels, flower pot saucers, swimming pool covers, wading pools, clogged gutters and eavestroughs, clogged drainage ditches, small containers like cans or bottle tops and unused children’s toys, said the release.
The health unit said symptoms of West Nile virus can range from mild to severe, from flu-like symptoms to severe nausea and even loss of consciousness.
Public Health Sudbury & Districts will be trapping and testing mosquitoes again this year starting in mid-June and continuing into the fall of 2023, said the release. For more information on West Nile virus, visit the website at phsd.ca or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705-522-9200, ext. 464 (toll-free 1-866-522-9200).
