The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has spotted an issue that may bug people this summer.
During its annual mosquito surveillance program, the health unit spotted one adult Aedes albopictus mosquito in the City of Windsor. The discovery was made public Monday afternoon.
The Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is a daytime biter, unlike many mosquitoes who come out at night. They tend to peak in the early mornings or late afternoons, laying eggs in or near standing water that is collected in a variety of objects, like birdbaths, buckets, or pet food dishes.
The species feeds on humans, but also on animals, which makes it a less-likely carrier of the Zika virus. Medical Officer of Health Doctor Wajid Ahmed said, though, that there is no increased risk of contracting that virus in Windsor-Essex.
"There is no change in risk for Zika virus in our community, and the Aedes albopictus mosquito found tested negative for Zika virus and West Nile virus," said Ahmed in a media release. "This is an important reminder for everyone to remove standing water around our homes and workplaces to prevent mosquito breeding and protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites."
The Aedes albopictus mosquito is pictured. Photo courtesy Centers for Disease Control/Public Domain.
To keep these, and other annoying bugs, to a minimum around you, the health unit recommends dumping any standing water on your property, since mosquitoes can breed in a space as small as a bottle cap.
The health unit also recommends wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent, and making sure screens in your doors or windows do not have holes.
Complete information on the species, or on bugs that may transit disease, can be found at the health unit's official website.