The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit is warning residents in Northumberland County to protect themselves from mosquito bites after two American Crows tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).
The birds, found dead in Hamilton Township, were confirmed positive on July 16 by the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative. This marks the first detection of WNV in the area this year, although health officials note that finding the virus in birds during the summer is not unusual.
“Finding West Nile virus in a bird indicates that the virus is present in our environment, and residents should take appropriate precautions,” said Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health.
While no human cases have been reported locally this year, WNV is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which are most active from late spring to early fall. Most people infected with the virus will not experience symptoms, but some may develop mild flu-like effects, and in rare cases, more serious neurological symptoms can occur.
To reduce your risk:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
- Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks from dusk to dawn.
- Keep doors and windows closed or properly screened.
- Remove standing water from birdbaths, planters, old tires, or other containers where mosquitoes can breed.
The Health Unit continues to monitor West Nile virus activity across the region through routine mosquito trapping and testing.
For more information on mosquito-borne illnesses and how to prevent them, visit www.hkpr.on.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
