Mosquitos in Toronto test positive for West Nile Virus
Posted July 3, 2012 4:32 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Mosquitoes in Toronto have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, Toronto Public Health confirmed on Tuesday.
It’s the first positive result so far this year in the city.
“This finding of mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus is earlier in the season than previous years,” said Dr. Howard Shapiro, associate medical officer of health for Toronto Public Health.
“It is a good reminder for the public to protect themselves from mosquito bites, and to reduce mosquito breeding grounds by draining standing water around your home.”
Mosquitoes at 43 different trapping stations are tested weekly for the virus.
Last year, Toronto Public Health reported that 28 people were infected with West Nile Virus, with 71 cases throughout Ontario.
There have been no deaths from the illness since 2005.
Toronto Public Health tips:
Although the risk of becoming infected is low, protection against mosquito bites can lower this risk further.
The following measures are recommended:
- Use mosquito repellent approved by Health Canada.
- Wear light-coloured clothing and cover up when in areas where mosquitoes are present.
- Take extra precautions, especially in early morning and early evening, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Remove standing water around your home and property.
For more information, visit http://www.toronto.ca/health/westnile or call 416-338-7600.
