Hamilton’s West Nile Virus risk has jumped from “moderate” to “high.”
The risk level was heightened after Public Health Services reported an increased number of mosquitoes within the city that have tested positive for West Nile.
Nineteen batches of mosquitoes that have been collected from traps across the city this summer have tested positive for the virus.
Five of those 19 confirmed positive mosquito pools came from lower East Hamilton and four were from upper Stoney Creek.
Others were found on the East and Central Mountain, Central Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster and Glanbrook.
Areas with confirmed positive mosquito pools to date:
1. Ancaster: 1
2. Dundas: 0
3. Flamborough: 0
4. Glanbrook: 1
5. Central Mountain: 1
6. East Mountain: 3
7. West Mountain: 0
8. Lower Central Hamilton: 2
9. Lower East Hamilton: 5
10. Lower West Hamilton: 0
11. Lower Stoney Creek: 2
12. Upper Stoney Creek: 4
Total 19 (15 week of August 15th and 4 prior this season)
As part of its prevention efforts, the City says it will continue to treat street catch basins and surface water on public land, including ditches and other areas where water may accumulate.
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West Nile virus is mainly spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.
While most people who get West Nile do not experience any symptoms, a small number of individuals may develop flu-like symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle weakness and stiff neck.
Anyone who suspects they have West Nile virus should seek medical attention.
Quick Facts (courtesy of the City of Hamilton):
- Public Health Services reminds residents to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
- While most people infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms (80 per cent), others, including the older adult or those with weakened immune systems, may experience West Nile fever (20 per cent) or they may develop more severe illness including inflammation of the brain or the lining of the brain (1 per cent). For any infection, if symptoms do occur, they appear two to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.The most effective defense is to use a mosquito repellent containing DEET. When using mosquito repellent, carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions.
- The most effective defense is to use a mosquito repellent containing DEET. When using mosquito repellent, carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions.
- Other ways to prevent being bitten include avoiding areas where mosquitoes are known to be present or covering up with light coloured long sleeves and long pants when in mosquito areas such as wooded areas, on the golf course, or in the garden, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Remember to continue to remove standing water at least weekly from your property.
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