Peel Region has confirmed its first case of West Nile virus for this year, detected in mosquitoes in Brampton. Peel Public Health announced that mosquito samples collected from various traps in the region tested positive for the virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. This discovery has prompted health officials to remind residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and reduce breeding grounds around their homes.

Key Locations of Positive Mosquito Samples

The positive samples were collected from several locations, including:

• Atwater Ave and Cawthra Rd
• Truscott Dr and Southdown Rd
• Derry Rd E and Airport Rd
• Queen St E and West Dr
• Hurontario St and Steeles Ave E
• Williams Parkway and Chinguacousy Rd
• Queen St E and Kennedy Rd N
• Cottrelle Boulevard and The Gore Rd
• North Park Dr and Torbram Rd

Symptoms and Risk Factors

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not show symptoms, but some may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, a mild rash, and swollen lymph glands. Severe cases, although rare, can lead to neurological complications. People over 50 and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.

Preventive Measures

To protect against mosquito bites, health officials recommend:

• Applying insect repellents containing DEET or icaridin.
• Wearing long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Ensuring window and door screens are intact and free of holes.
• Removing or draining items on your property that can collect stagnant water, as this is a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Public Health Advisory

Residents are advised to avoid using DEET or icaridin on infants under six months old, opting for mosquito nets instead. Public health authorities also suggest reporting stagnant water sites to Peel Public Health to help control the mosquito population.

Canadians can track confirmed West Nile virus cases in their area on the Health Canada website or through their local public health department. 

Reference

The Canadian Press. (2023, August 18). West Nile virus found in mosquitoes in Brampton: Peel's first case this year. The Star. https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/west-nile-virus-found-in-mosquitoes-in-brampton-peels-first-case-this-year/article_ca3a4388-3d56-11ef-9f9a-f7aba1b1c873.html