Windsor-Essex health unit attacks West Nile virus with awareness campaign

The Windsor-EssexCounty Health unit launched its West Nile virus program Monday, hoping to create some buzz.

• West Nile virus targeted by Windsor-Essex health unit

• Health unit to screen for Zika virus carrying mosquitoes

The goal of the campaign is tocreate public awareness around ways people can protect themselves from getting the virus.

Dr. Wajid Ahmed, associate medical health officer, saidmosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus are more active in at dawn and dusk. So, if people areoutside during that time, the health unit suggests wearing light-coloured clothes and insect repellent with deet.

"Protect yourselves and enjoy the outdoors," Dr. Ahmed said.

The health unit started its campaign earlier this year, because warm weather and high volumes of rain mean more mosquitoes are active in the Windsor area.

PestaltoEnvironmental Services is helping the city withmosquito management by setting up traps, testing standing water, and informing people on what they can do.

There were twoconfirmed cases of West Nile in Windsor-Essex last year, which isbelow the average.

The health unit is hoping public awareness will keep the number low again this year.