Mosquitoes in Burlington test positive for West Nile virus

Halton region officials say a batch of mosquitoes trapped this week in Burlington has tested positive for West Nile virus.

This is the sixth batch of positive mosquitoes for the area this year. The other batches of mosquitoes that tested positive for the virus included four batches in Oakville and one batch in Milton.

The types of mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus to humans usually breed in urban areas such as bird baths, plant pots, old toys and tires that hold water.

Halton region officials say most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms. Those who do may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

Residents can take the following steps to protect themselves from mosquitoes:

• Cover up when going outside between the hours of dusk and dawn;
• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric;
• Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects, where possible. Change the water in bird baths at least once per week;
• Use an insect repellent, such as one containing DEET or Icaridin; and
• Make sure your window and door screens are tight and without holes, cuts or other openings