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Two mosquito test pools have tested positive — the first since the annual mosquito trapping and testing program began on June 1, Ottawa Public Health said Friday. Mosquitoes can pose the threat of spreading the virus to a hard frost.
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There have been no reported, confirmed or suspected human cases of West Nile virus in Ottawa so far this year, OPH said. As of September 1, no human cases have been reported in Ontario this year. Ottawa residents have been asked to reduce the number of mosquitoes by removing outdoor objects that can hold water and where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. West Nile virus is primarily transmitted by the northern house mosquito. Most infected people will not develop any symptoms, but about one in five may have flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches and possibly a rash, OPH said.
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In less than one percent of cases, the virus invades the central nervous system causing more severe disease. The elderly, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. OPH advises people to use Health Canada-approved mosquito repellents that contain DEET or icaridin, cover up with tightly woven and light-colored clothing, make sure window screens are properly fitted and in good condition, and reduce standing water for a week or more. Along with weekly surveillance, the health unit said it places larvicide in standing water on city property when needed and regularly applies larvicide to roadside storm catchment basins to reduce mosquito numbers.
