West Nile-infected mosquitoes discovered in Peel Region

Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus have now been discovered in Peel Region.

Two mosquito batches, one collected in Mississauga and the other in Brampton, have tested positive, the region confirmed in a statement.

“We expect a very busy West Nile Virus season,” said Peel Region’s director of environmental health Paul Callanan.

“The recent hot weather and lack of rain has helped to increase the mosquito population. Peel is one of many regions in the GTA to find West Nile Virus earlier than usual,” he said.

It comes after the infected insects were found in Toronto, Oakville and Milton.

So far, there haven’t been any human cases of the West Nile virus reported in the GTA.

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.

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