BlackburnNews.com file photo of a worker monitoring mosquitos.
BlackburnNews.com file photo of a worker monitoring mosquitos.
Windsor

Health Unit Reports First Human Case Of West Nile Virus

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit says a resident has tested positive for the West Nile Virus, the first of the year.

Although it is the first lab-confirmed case, health officials acknowledge that there could be others in the community since most people with the virus never develop symptoms.

About 25% of victims develop West Nile fever, while less than 1% suffer severe neuroinvasive disease or encephalitis.

The health unit says the positive human case is a good opportunity to remind residents to take precautions against infection.

They recommend getting rid of any standing water on your property, using insect repellent containing DEET, wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, pants and a hat outside and limit your time outside during dusk and dawn when mosquitos are active.

So far this year, six mosquito pools in Windsor-Essex have tested positive for the West Nile Virus.

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