More mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus found in Mississauga

More mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been found in Mississauga, Peel Public Health officials said on Tuesday.

The virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, was found to be present in insects collected from two traps during the week of July 20 — one trap located near the intersection of Dixie Road and Bloor Street, the other in the area of Eglinton Avenue West and Ninth Line.

The first mosquitoes to test positive for the virus this summer in Mississauga were collected from a trap the week of July 13 near Derry and Airport roads, close to both Brampton and Etobicoke, public health officials said earlier.

West Nile virus can typically cause flu-like symptoms in people, but can also lead to more severe illnesses affecting the brain or nervous system.

According to the City of Mississauga, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for humans, making prevention essential. Older people and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious complications.

The best way to combat West Nile is to lower the risk of contracting the mosquito-borne illness, say city officials.

Mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active at dusk and dawn. People are advised to limit exposure during peak mosquito hours or, if possible, stay indoors during these times.

Applying effective insect repellents containing DEET or icaridin when outdoors is also recommended.

Also, wearing protective clothing is an effective method to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, the city noted. Dress in long sleeves, pants, socks and a hat when outside, especially at dawn and dusk, officials urge.

Other preventive steps include ensuring all windows and door screens fit securely and are free of tears and holes. It is also important to store any water-catching items indoors or under cover and to repair leaking outdoor hoses or faucets to prevent small puddles from forming.

If you notice persistent standing water in local catch basins, ditches or other public areas, report it to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 (or toll-free at 1-888-919-7800) or online.

(Cover photo: City of Mississauga)