First Probable Human Case of West Nile Virus in Waterloo Region
The first probable human case of West Nile Virus in Waterloo Region has been identified. The individual is hospitalized and in very serious condition. In 2011, one probable and one confirmed case was reported. Prior to 2011, the last case of West Nile Virus in the Region was in 2005.
There have been six positive mosquito pools detected across the Region to date.
There has been a significant increase in West Nile Virus activity across the Province. Public Health Ontario reports 82 confirmed and probable human West Nile Virus cases as of August 28, 2012.
With the temperatures remaining warm and the long weekend upon us, many people will be spending time outdoors. Public Health urges residents to take precautions when venturing outdoors. Helpful suggestions for personal protection include the following:
Make Personal Protection a Priority
- Wear light coloured, tightly woven long sleeved shirts, pants and a hat.
- Minimize time spent outdoors during dusk and dawn.
- Apply a repellant containing DEET. Follow manufacturer’s instructions and never use a concentration higher than needed for the time you plan to spend outdoors. Eucalyptus plant compounds and soybean oil are other alternatives.
- The use of DEET on a child under the age of six months is not recommended.
- Make sure that door and window screens fit tightly and have no holes that would allow mosquitoes to enter.
Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Grounds
- Eliminate standing water on your property to reduce places where mosquitoes can breed including water in bird baths, eaves troughs, flower pot saucers.
- Don’t allow outdoor objects to collect water.
- Cover rain barrels with a fine mesh screen.
- Change water in birdbaths and livestock watering tanks at least once a week.
- Don’t allow water to collect in roadside ditches or in low lying areas on your property.
- Clean up brush and debris that could act as mosquito breeding areas.
For more information about West Nile Virus, call 519-883-2008 ext 5147 or visit our website: http://chd.region.waterloo.on.ca/en/healthylivinghealthprotection/westnilevirus.asp
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Media contact: Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, Associate Medical Officer of Health, 519-883-2278