Local mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus
Posted Jul 26, 2018 07:18:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
West Nile virus has been found in Ottawa-area mosquitoes for the first time this season.
Ottawa Public Health is reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites and do what they can to keep the mosquito population from thriving.
The agency suggests that homeowners clear any standing water around their properties, because that's where the bugs like to lay their eggs.
There have been zero confirmed cases of West Nile in humans this year in Ottawa, but there have been two cases reported elsewhere in the province.
Last year, 20 confirmed or probable cases were reported in the capital, and 147 confirmed or probable human cases in Ontario.
OPH said West Nile virus does not usually lead to problems for most people, but about 20% of the population may experience flu-like symptoms, and a very small number of people can become seriously ill.
