West Nile Virus positive mosquitoes detected in Mississauga and Brampton
Published August 25, 2023 at 9:42 pm
Residents in Mississauga and Brampton are being advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites, as mosquito samples carrying the West Nile virus have been identified in both cities.
Peel Public Health issued a statement on Aug. 25, revealing that a total of four mosquito traps collected in the Peel Region during the week of Aug. 20 have tested positive for the West Nile virus.
The affected mosquito traps were strategically placed in various locations across the region to monitor the presence of the virus. The following areas were reported to have West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes:
- Derry Road East and Airport Road
- McLaughlin Road and Matheson Boulevard West
- Winston Churchill Boulevard & Burnhamthorpe Road West
- Cottrelle Boulevard and The Gore Road
West Nile Virus can be carried by mosquitoes, and a bite from an infected insect can lead to fever, headaches and body aches, rashes, and swelling of the lymph glands. Symptoms typically appear between two and 14 days after being bitten.
Earlier this week, two people in Toronto have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, according to the city’s public health agency.
Local authorities are emphasizing the importance of taking precautions to prevent mosquito bites. These measures include using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times, which are typically around dawn and dusk.
Residents should avoid repellents containing DEET or icaridin on infants under six months of age and instead use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a stroller.
Residents should also avoid shaded and wooded areas, especially when mosquitoes are most active. Public health agencies also advise using secure door and window screens and removing still or stagnant water from your property.
The region says water that is stagnant for more than seven days is “an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes,” and residents can report stagnant water sites to Peel Public Health by calling 905-799-7700 or by visiting www.peelregion.ca/public-health.
With files from Ashley Newport and The Canadian Press