First case of West Nile Virus in Halton found in Oakville mosquitoes

Oakville | Halton | Community | Health | Latest News |

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Published August 5, 2022 at 4:53 pm

West Nile Virus has been detected in Halton for the first time this summer on a batch of mosquitoes trapped in Oakville.

Urban areas are more likely to have mosquitoes that carry WNV. The types of mosquitoes that transmit WNV to humans most commonly breed in urban areas such as bird baths, plant pots, old toys and tires that hold water.

Most individuals infected with WNV do not develop any symptoms while some may develop fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. The majority of these individuals will recover completely but a few of them can go on to develop severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and individuals over 50 years of age are at higher risk for severe disease.

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 is available on the West Nile Virus page.

For more information about West Nile virus or to report standing water at public facilities, call 311 or email [email protected].

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