Thursday, August 30, 2012
Ottawa Public Health identifies a probable case of West Nile Virus
Ottawa- Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is currently investigating a probable human case of West Nile Virus. If confirmed, this would be the first human case in Ottawa since 2006.
West Nile Virus (WNV) is an infection spread by mosquitoes that, in a small number of cases, can cause serious illness. Most people will not develop symptoms if infected with WNV, but some individuals – particularly the elderly or those with weakened immune systems – may experience flu-like symptoms.
In early August, OPH announced that routine monitoring had confirmed the presence of WNV in the mosquito population. Since that time, we have urged residents to do their part in protecting themselves and their families from mosquito bites by:
- Reducing standing water sites around your home (bird baths, toys, flower pot saucers, swimming pool covers, etc.)
- Applying an approved mosquito repellent to exposed skin and clothing
- Avoiding going out at dawn and at dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
- Wearing light coloured and tightly woven clothing such as long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes and socks to protect exposed skin
- Making sure all windows and doors in your home have screens that are in good condition
- Ensure rain barrels are covered at all times
OPH has a proactive plan to prevent WNV which includes weekly tests and surveillance of natural and manmade standing water sites located on City property, such as ditches and storm water management ponds. OPH also makes proactive use of biological larvicide (Bti) when appropriate as well as a chemical larvicide called methoprene which is used to treat all City-owned roadside storm sewers.
For additional information on West Nile Virus, visit ottawa.ca/health or call Ottawa Public Health Information at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with us on Tumblr, Facebook and Twitter (@ottawahealth).
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