Mosquitoes in Whitby Test Positive for West Nile Virus
The Durham Region Health Department has confirmed that adult mosquitoes in Whitby have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This season, 13 mosquito batches in Durham Region have tested positive, including three in Ajax, three in Clarington, three in Oshawa, three in Pickering, and one in Whitby.
The positive mosquitoes were collected from trap sites in Pickering and Whitby. The Health Department sets mosquito traps across the region and tests them weekly from June to September.
West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on birds carrying the virus. The disease is not transmitted from person to person or from birds to humans. Most people infected with WNV will experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body ache, nausea, vomiting, and rash. More severe symptoms can include muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, tremors, numbness, and sensitivity to light. Symptoms typically appear between two and 15 days after being bitten.
The Health Department advises residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and potential infection. Recommended measures include wearing shoes, socks, and light-colored clothing that covers the skin, using insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, removing standing water from properties, and ensuring window and door screens are in good repair.
