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Mosquito Trap Tests Positive for WNV in Tavistock

Southwestern Public Health has confirmed that a local mosquito trap has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

TAVISTOCK - Southwestern Public Health has confirmed that a local mosquito trap has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The trap was located in the Town of Tavistock. Program Manager for Environmental Health at Southwestern Public Health Amy Pavletic says this is the first mosquito trap this year to produce a positive test in the Southwestern Public Health region.

“We have several mosquito traps set up across Oxford County, Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas to monitor and test for the presence of West Nile Virus in our region." 

Public health recommends removing standing water around your property to reduce places where mosquitos can breed. Additional ways to protect yourself and your family include:

- Use DEET-based repellants to prevent mosquito bites and following directions for use, especially around children.
- Wear light coloured clothing with long sleeves, pants and socks in areas where mosquitoes are present, especially at dusk and dawn when they are most active.
- Repair holes in screens, windows and doors.
- Empty standing water regularly around your property, such as from pool covers, toys, flowerpots, garbage cans, and any other outdoor object that can collect water.
- Change water in bird baths every other day.
- Keep pool pumps circulating.
- Install screens to cover the opening of rain barrels.

The majority of people (80%) who become infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do usually experience mild flu-like symptoms. 

Fewer than 1% of people infected with thevirus get seriously ill. Contact your primary care provider if you exhibit flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito.

For more information, visit www.swpublichealth.ca

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