Burlington resident first in Halton with confirmed case of West Nile virus

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Published September 20, 2022 at 9:39 am

The first case of West Nile virus in a human in Halton has occurred in a Burlington resident.

“Halton Region Public Health works diligently to reduce the risk of West Nile virus in our community through both education and preventative programs such as larviciding,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region Medical Officer of Health.

“Until the fall frost, Halton residents should continue to protect themselves against mosquito bites and remove mosquito breeding sites. While 80 per cent of people infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms, others will have West Nile fever consisting of fever, headache, muscle ache and a rash. These symptoms are very similar to illnesses such as COVID-19, so it is important for residents who are concerned or experiencing symptoms, to seek medical assessment.”

Residents can take the following steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes:

  • Cover up when going outside between the hours of dusk and dawn (when most mosquitoes feed). Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric.
  • Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects, where possible. Change the water in bird baths at least once per week.
  • Use an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET or Icaridin.
  • Make sure your window and door screens are tight and without holes, cuts or other openings.

Locations of standing water sites that have had larvicide applied this year are available on the West Nile Virus page.

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