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With the rainy and rainy summer Ontario has seen in recent months, it is not surprising that mosquitoes are rife in the province. However, although their bites usually cause only mild irritation, the Peel area warns that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have just been discovered in Brampton. This is the first case of West Nile discovered this year.
On Tuesday, the Peel region publicly announced that residents of the Brampton area should be extra careful to protect themselves from mosquito bites during the rest of the mosquito season.
After testing mosquitoes collected in the area of Mclaughlin Rd. S. and Steeles Ave. W. researchers have discovered that some of these mosquitoes have been tested positive for West Nile virus, which means that other mosquitoes in this region could also carry this disease.
Since the Peel Region experienced the first positive test of the year, it warns residents against the simple tasks they can perform to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Some of these tasks include removing stagnant water from your property, applying an insect repellent to your skin and clothing, avoiding heavily populated areas of mosquitoes (woods, shaded areas) and making sure all windows and mosquito nets are well closed.
As of July 20, West Nile virus has not been reported in humans in the Brampton area or in the rest of Ontario. However, the disease can be transmitted to a human being if bitten by an infected mosquito.
The Peel Region has confirmed that the risk of contracting West Nile virus is low, but residents should still take extra precautions, as this could happen.
According to Health Canada, 70 to 80% of those infected have no symptoms. However, symptoms can include an infection, fever, headaches and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms may begin to appear two to fifteen days after infection.
Although this is rare, some more serious symptoms may also include loss of consciousness, muscle weakness, and paralysis.
Humans are most exposed to West Nile virus between April and September.
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