By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
A Halton resident has tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first human case in the region this year.
“Halton Region Public Health works to reduce the risk of West Nile virus in our community through education and preventative programs such as larviciding,” said Dr. Patrick Galange, Halton Region Associate Medical Officer of Health.
He urged residents to continue protecting themselves against mosquito bites until the fall frost.
“About 80 per cent of individuals infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms, while others may develop a febrile illness consisting of fever, headache, muscle ache, and a rash,” Dr. Galange explained.
“About one in a hundred people infected with West Nile virus may develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system. This may present as encephalitis or meningitis.”
To prevent mosquito bites, residents are advised to cover up when outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn, use approved insect repellent, and eliminate mosquito breeding sites around their homes.
The Halton Region serves over 637,000 Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton, and Oakville residents, providing services such as public health, waste management, and emergency management.
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