Health officials in Windsor say a mosquito pool in the community has tested positive for the West Nile virus.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit said Thursday that the mosquitos were collected during routine monitoring. This is the first source of West Nile virus identified this year.
While there have been no positive human cases of the virus in Windsor-Essex, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed says residents should continue to protect themselves against mosquitoes.
"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," said Dr. Ahmed.
West Nile virus is a mosquito transmitted virus that can be transferred to humans from the bite of an infected mosquito. You can protect yourself by using bug repellents that contain DEET or Icardin on clothing as well as exposed skin. It's also recommended that you wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat while outdoors. Water should be removed from places like birdbaths, buckets, pet water dishes, gutters, and old tires.
You can also contact your local municipality’s by-law enforcement, or call 311 if you come across a pool of standing water.