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Late August and early September is peak season for the West Nile virus. Since the first human case was discovered in Ontario in 2002, over 5000 Canadians have been infected. It’s transmitted by infected mosquitoes and traps in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara have already tested positive this season. There have also been three human cases of West Nile so far this summer: one in Toronto, one in Waterloo Region and one in Niagara Falls.

Dimitra Kasimos, manager of vector-borne diseases at Halton Region Public Health, recommends avoiding outdoor activities during early morning and evening when mosquitoes are most active. She suggested wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially in damp or wooded areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. If you have to be outside in a mosquito prone area, wear insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.

Luckily, about four of five people who catch West Nile virus will not show any symptoms. About one in five will experience flu like symptoms and in rare cases, particularly when someone’s immune system is already weak, West Nile can cause meningitis or swelling of the brain.

Though the relatively cool weather this summer means we will likely experience mild to moderate levels of West Nile this year, it’s important to remove any potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Get rid of stagnant water on your property and properly chlorinate pools.

Any suspected cases of West Nile should be reported to your local public health agency.