Public Health Sudbury & Districts and the Porcupine Health Unit have confirmed that a bird in their respective jurisdictions has tested positive for West Nile virus.
In a statement, the Porcupine Health Unit says monitored mosquito pools have tested negative for West Nile virus (WNV) since 2006 and no confirmed human cases have been reported in the district.
The situation is similar for Sudbury.
This year, in our territory, there have been no cases of people infected or mosquitoes carrying the virus, underlines Jon Groulx, health protection manager at Public Health Sudbury and Districts.
Kaitlin McCaw, a public health inspector with the Porcupine Health Unit, said staff in her office are continuing to monitor mosquitoes at various locations across the district for West Nile virus this summer.
Take precautions
Although the majority of people infected with WNV (80%) do not become ill, according to the Porcupine Health Unit, precautions should still be taken to avoid contracting the virus.
Public Health Sudbury & Districts is advising people to install screens on windows and doors in their homes and to remove standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
The public health department also suggests wearing light-colored, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks during times when mosquitoes are most active.
Finally, use an approved insect repellent.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
