Mosquitoes in the Halton Region test positive for West Nile Virus

Halton Region reported the first batches of West Nile virus positive mosquitoes of the year on Thursday.

In a statement by the municipality, officials say that six batches of mosquitoes caught were found to be positive for the virus.

Five of the batches were collected in Oakville and one in Burlington. Officials say that urban areas are more likely to have mosquitoes positive for the virus and, most commonly, breed in areas such as bird baths, plant pots, old toys and tires holding water.

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While most individuals infected with the West Nile Virus do not develop symptoms, some may develop a fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and individuals over 50 years of age are at higher risk for severe disease.

Residents in the Halton Region are reminded to take steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes by wearing cover-ups, eliminating any breeding sites on their properties, using repellents and securing window and door screens.

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