Increase in mosquito-borne viruses reported in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark in birds, horses

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit says it’s received a number of reports of cases in the area over the last few weeks of both West Nile virus (WNV) in birds and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in horses.

“With the wet summer we have experienced, there has been an increase in the mosquito population throughout the entire LGL area,” a media release says. “Mosquito-borne viruses such as West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis are spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.” 

The health unit urges that people can still enjoy the outdoors for the rest of the summer and into the fall by taking a few steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites and the viruses they spread. 

For most people, the risk of illness for both diseases is low. However, for some (elderly or immune-compromised), there is a higher risk of severe illness if they are infected. There have been 12 human WNV cases reported in Ontario this year, and zero reported human cases within the LGL region. There have been no reported cases of EEEV in humans in 2024 and only three (3) human cases have ever been reported in Ontario.

The Health Unit recommends that you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites. The following measures can help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses:

• Apply insect repellents sparingly to exposed skin. Effective repellents contain DEET or Icaridin. Be sure to follow directions and use age-appropriate concentrations. DO NOT USE personal insect repellents on children under two (2) years of age.
• Wear light-coloured clothing, long pants and long sleeves, as well as shoes and socks during peak mosquito times to prevent mosquito bites.
• Wear a netted insect hat to help protect your face and neck while outside during times of high mosquito activity.
• Avoid being outside at dusk and dawn, as mosquitos are most active at that time.
• Reduce mosquito breeding grounds around your home by eliminating standing water including cleaning your eaves troughs, emptying bird baths and cleaning up items that collect water like toys and old tires.
• Use a fine mesh netting on the top of rain barrels to prevent access by mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
• Use netting on strollers to protect small babies from insect bites.
• Repair or replace damaged screens in windows, doors and vents to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Consult your health care provider if you are feeling unwell after being bitten by mosquitoes.

More information regarding this disease and its symptoms can be found in the Insect Bites and Diseases section of the Health Unit’s website, or call 1-800-660-5853. You can also follow @LGLHealthUnit on social media accounts.