Two local cases of West Nile Virus confirmed

Posted October 1, 2012

Press Release - West Nile virus (WNv) infection has recently been confirmed by laboratory tests in two adults. The individuals, from New Tecumseth and Essa Township, are the second and third cases of WNv in Simcoe Muskoka this year.

The health unit will continue to conduct additional mosquito trapping as part of its ongoing WNv surveillance program, which will continue until mosquitoes are no longer active.

"Although we are getting close to the end of mosquito season, it is still important for the public to take measures to prevent mosquito bites," said Dr. Jim Pfaff, associate medical officer of health, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. "As long as mosquitoes are active, it is possible to become infected with West Nile virus through a bite."

Measures for personal protection include:

Wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and long pants
Using insect repellents and following the manufacturerÕs directions
Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn)
Keeping windows and doors closed, and checking screens to ensure there are no breaks and
Cleaning up standing water on your property (i.e. emptying rain barrels, wheelbarrows, etc.).

The majority of people infected with WNv do not show any symptoms and most of those who do show symptoms will experience mild illness which may include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting or rashes on the chest, stomach or back.

Less than one per cent of those infected with WNv will experience serious symptoms, which may include high fever, severe headache, muscle weakness, stiff neck or confusion. However, in rare instances the virus can cause encephalitis or death.

For more information about WNv and how to protect yourself and your family, call Your Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. More information is also available on this website's West Nile virus pages.

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