Staff Report
BRANT NEWS

A pool of mosquitoes in the City of Brantford has tested positive for West Nile virus.

The mosquitoes, which were collected on July 24, are the first to be found positive for West Nile this year, according to a media release from the Brant County Health Unit.

There are no reports of human cases of the virus.

West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes get the virus by feeding on infected birds. It is not transmitted through person-to-person contact.

The BCHU recommends residents protect themselves from mosquitoes using the following methods:

• Using approved insect repellent containing DEET. DEET products should not be used on children under two years old or pregnant women.

• Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

• Cover up with light-coloured, tightly woven clothing, long sleeves and long pants.

• Get rid of all water-filled containers such as flowerpots, buckets and barrels, which act as breeding sites for mosquitoes. Change the water in pet dishes and replace water in birdbaths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out and keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when not being used.

The health unit regularly carries out activities to monitor and control the spread of West Nile virus in the area. Storm sewer catch basins are treated with a pesticide to kill mosquito larvae to reduce the mosquito population and West Nile virus surveillance is done on a weekly basis.

A West Nile virus hotline is available for anyone with questions, concerns or to report standing water. Call 519-753-4937 for more information.