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Local health officials have raised alarm over the discovery of West Nile virus in the Town of Arnprior.
The Renfrew County and District Health Unit says the illness has been detected in a sample of mosquitoes recently collected from within town.
West Nile virus is spread to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes, and while most infected people will not show symptoms, one in five may show symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and vomiting.
Approximately 1 in 150 people may develop severe illnesses affecting the central nervous system, including encephalitis or meningitis, with symptoms including stiff neck, confusion, tremors, numbness, and sudden sensitivity to light.
Older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
While the risk of infection is low, Dr. Jason Morgenstern, Medical Officer of Health for RCDHU, says the discovery is “an important reminder for everyone to prevent mosquito bites and
reduce breeding sites.”
The RCDHU recommends protecting yourself by:
- Wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, hats, and socks, especially between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Applying Health Canada-approved insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin on exposed skin
- removing standing water around your home, cottage, and campsite to eliminate potential egg-laying sites for mosquitoes
- keeping brushes and shrubs clear of overgrowth and debris to remove resting spots for adult mosquitoes
- turning over compost piles on a regular basis
- Making homes and businesses “bug tight” by ensuring windows and door screens fit tightly.
More information on West Nile virus and tips on keeping your family safe can be found on the RCDHU website.
(written by Kasey Egan)
