The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has detected the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus in a mosquito pool in the community.
The EEE virus has been linked to a number of reported cases of illness and death in southwest Michigan, but there have been no human cases in Windsor-Essex.
“Despite the recent cooler temperature in the region, it might not be cold enough to eliminate the risk posed by mosquitoes. This is a good reminder for everyone to continue to protect themselves against mosquitoes by removing any standing water and to take personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites,” said Dr. Ahmed, medical officer of health at the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.
According to the health unit, serious health effects caused by EEE are rare. Only four-five per cent of infected people develop symptoms and less than one per cent develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.
Still, the health unit recommends anyone who spends time outdoors to use insect repellent, cover as much exposed skin as possible, and wear light coloured clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
The WECHU will continue to monitor for EEE activity and distribute educational materials in the area where the positive mosquito pool was identified.