First human case of West Nile Virus confirmed in London this mosquito season

A person in the London area has contractedWest Nile Virus, according to the health unit, becoming the fifth in the province to test positive this summer.

The Middlesex London Health Unit (MLHU) reported the case on Friday warning that a human case is always cause for concern.

"Five mosquito traps have already been identified as WNV-positive in Middlesex-London. This human case emphasizes the need for everyone in our community to take precautions," saidDr. Joanne Kearon, the Associate Medical Officer of Health in a statement.

West Nile Virus is an annual concern for public health officials in southern Ontario.

The MLHU regularly takes steps to control the local mosquito population to reduce the likelihood of diseases associated with the insects.

So far this year, the health unit's Vector-Borne Disease Team has administered three rounds of insecticide to roughly 113,780 catch basins in the region, along with treatment of surface water.

Eighty per cent of people who become infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick, and fewer than one per cent become seriously sick, with the majority of those who experience symptoms seeing mild flu-like symptoms, according to public health officials.

"We must continue to protect ourselves and our families against mosquito bites, including wearing light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants, and using mosquito repellents with DEET," said Kearon.

Other things residents can do to protect themselves and their family from catching the virus include:

• Ensuringstanding water on your property is cleared, including garbage cans, wheelbarrows and flower pots.
• Regularly rotatingwater in standing bird baths.
• Covering openings in rain barrels.
• Properly closingand opening backyard swimming pools.