West Nile has reared its ugly head in Chatham-Kent for the second time this summer.
Public Health says mosquitoes collected in a trap in Dresden on August 31st have tested positive for the virus.
Officials say West Nile is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, and while many people infected won’t experience any symptoms, some may notice fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue.
In rare cases, infected individuals may experience more severe illness, including stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and lack of co-ordination or paralysis. Anyone with severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Protect yourself and your family by:
- Wearing light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks
- Using insect repellent containing DEET (follow the label directions)
- Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn)
- Ensuring that all door and window screens are tight and free of holes
- Eliminating sources of standing water on your property to prevent mosquito breeding