Waterloo region reports first 2 locally acquired human cases of West Nile virus since 2018

For the first time in six years, two people in Waterloo region have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

Region of Waterloo Public Health says the two people got the virus locally. The last local case was reported in 2018.

West Nile virus is spread by infected mosquitos. Public health reported West Nile virus had been detected in the region in early August through testing that's part of theadult mosquito surveillance program.

The region's associatemedical officer of health, Dr. Rabia Bana,said the hot temperatures and increased amount of rain this summer "have created the favourable conditions for West Nile virus in our region and other areas across the province."

"While we await cooler fall temperatures and the first frost, residents should continue to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites when enjoying outdoor activities," Bana said.

WATCH|Notice something strange hanging in your local park? They're probably mosquito traps:

Notice something strange hanging in your local park? They're probably mosquito traps

2 months ago

Duration 2:39

A pool of mosquitoes has tested positive for West Nile virus in Waterloo. Regional public health officials are testing for the virus in parks and other urban areas. CBC K-W's Karis Mapp went with a crew to see how the traps are hung on trees to collect mosquitos.

She added that people should look around their properties and remove any standing water sources where mosquitos can breed.

Public health said most people who are infected with West Nile virus do not experience any symptoms. For those who do, the symptoms will show up two to 15 days after they're bitten by an infected mosquito.

Symptoms include:

• Mild fever.
• Headache.
• Muscle aches.
• Stiff neck.
• Swollen glands.
• Skin rash.

People who develop symptoms after a mosquito bite should seek medical attention.

When outside, public health says, people can protect themselves from West Nile virus by:

• Wearing light-coloured clothing, long sleeves, pants, socksand a hat.
• Usinginsect repellent with DEET or Icaridin according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Avoiding being outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active.

People should also make sure they have screens over the windows of their homes.

Homeowners can also take action to prevent mosquitos from breeding, including:

• Covering rain barrels with a fine mesh screen.
• Changingthe water in birdbaths at least once a week.
• Keeping pool covers drained.
• Removingbrush and debris.
• Aeratingornamental ponds and fountains so water does notsit still.
• Dumping out water from outdoor objects.

Public Health Ontario reports that as of Sept. 7, there have been 16 human cases of West Nile virus in the province this year. As well, there have been 204 pools of water that have tested positive for the virus and one pool has tested positive foreastern equine encephalitis virus.