SIMCOE MUSKOKA – It may be starting to feel like fall, but mosquitoes are still active and the risk of West Nile virus remains high. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites. Mosquitoes remain active until the first hard frost.

The reminder follows reports of a human case of West Nile virus in Simcoe County, along with five birds and one horse that tested positive for the virus. These findings indicate West Nile virus is circulating in the community. The health unit notes that more infections likely occur than are reported because many people contract the virus do not become ill or seek medical attention.

West Nile virus circulates between birds and some species of mosquitoes. People can become infected if bitten by a mosquito that has first bitten an infected bird.

The health unit recommends following these steps to prevent mosquito bites:

• Use an insect repellent approved for use in Canada and follow label instructions.

• Wear light-coloured clothing and cover exposed skin with long sleeves, long pants, socks and a hat when mosquitoes are present.

• Remove standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
• Make sure window and door screens are in good condition to help keep mosquitoes out.

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not get sick, but some can become seriously ill. Symptoms can include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache and sensitivity to light. Anyone with these symptoms should seek medical care.

The health unit monitors mosquitoes across Simcoe Muskoka through trapping, testing and larval checks during the summer. Local surveillance data is available on the health unit’s HealthSTATS Infectious Diseases and Insect and Animal Surveillance dashboards.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit smdhu.org/WNv.