Confirmed, probable West Nile cases identified in residents in Rideau Lakes, Smiths Falls

The South East Health Unit is reminding residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after confirming one case and identifying another probable case of West Nile virus in the region.

The confirmed case was reported in a resident from the Rideau Lakes/Westport area, while the probable case involved a resident from the Smiths Falls area.

Health officials say while four out of five people infected show no symptoms, others may develop mild flu-like illness with fever, headache and body aches within two to 15 days of being bitten. Fewer than one per cent of cases result in severe disease, which can include neurological illness and, in rare cases, be fatal. The risk is higher among older adults, people with compromised immune systems and those with high blood pressure.

There is no vaccine or specific treatment for the virus. Preventing mosquito bites remains the best protection, health officials say.

Residents are advised to:

• Wear light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, pants and socks, particularly at dusk and dawn.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, following directions closely, especially for children.
• Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk.
• Remove standing water around homes.
• Repair window and door screens.
• Cover rain barrels with mesh.

The health unit said positive mosquito pools have already been identified this summer during monitoring, which began in June. Birds and mosquitoes carrying the virus have also been found throughout the region in past years.

Mosquito trapping is conducted regularly, while the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative monitors wildlife for signs of the virus. Residents can report dead birds at cwhc-rcsf.ca/report_and_submit.php.