As we head into the final weeks of summer, the Middlesex-London Health Unit is reminding local residents to take steps to prevent bug bites, after mosquitoes from a trap located in Glencoe were tested positive for West Nile Virus. The trap in Glencoe is the first to be found with West Nile Virus-positive mosquitoes in 2021.
“We’ve had an abundance of rainfall this summer, resulting in increased mosquito breeding and higher populations in some areas, so it is important to remain vigilant and protect yourself and family members from mosquito bites.” says Jeremy Hogeveen, Vector-Borne Disease Coordinator with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Cover exposed skin with light-coloured clothing, wear an insect repellant that contains DEET and avoid the outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Simple steps taken to reduce standing water around homes and cottages will also help to reduce mosquito populations in the community.”
Since the beginning of May, the Health Unit’s Vector-Borne Disease Team has conducted weekly mosquito monitoring at 250 standing water locations on public property in London and Middlesex County. This is in addition to the 35,000 roadside catch basins across the region that have received three mosquito control treatments this summer. The Health Unit will continue its surveillance and control efforts throughout the region and is reminding people in all areas of London and Middlesex County that West Nile Virus is still present in our community.
The Health Unit is advising homeowners to check window and door screens to ensure they are in good repair and free of tears or holes, to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home. Where possible, it’s also a good idea to seal up garden sheds and garages to prevent mosquitoes from finding refuge during the fall and winter months.
Other tips to help protect yourself and your family from West Nile Virus include:
- Wearing light-coloured clothing with long-sleeves, pants and socks in areas where mosquitoes are present, especially at dusk and dawn when they are most active.
- When using an insect repellent with DEET follow directions for use, especially for children.
- Regularly emptying standing water from garbage cans, wheelbarrows, toys, flowerpots and saucers, pool covers, tires, and other items around your home and yard.
- Cleaning and changing water in bird baths every other day.
- Ensure proper closing and opening of swimming pools.
- Covering openings in rain barrels.
The majority of people (80%) who become infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild flu-like symptoms; fewer than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill.
To learn more about personal protection and the Health Unit’s surveillance and control efforts please visit: www.healthunit.com/west-nile-virus.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-663-5317 ext. 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell)
Spokesperson:
Jeremy Hogeveen, Vector-Borne Disease Coordinator, Middlesex-London Health Unit