Peel Public Health has identified the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in 5 mosquito batches collected in the Peel Region, three of which were collected in Brampton. The mosquitos were collected from:
- Hurontario Street & Highway 407
- Gore Road & Cottrelle Boulevard
- North Park Drive & Torbram Road
West Nile Virus is a vector-borne disease transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of WNV include fever, headache, skin rashes, and body aches. Symptoms of severe illness include high fever, neck stiffness, convulsions, and paralysis. For more information on West Nile Virus, visit Peel Public Health’s database.
There is no cure for a WNV infection. Fortunately, there have been no reported human cases of WNV in Peel this year.
“Although the likelihood of getting a West Nile Virus infection is low, there are simple precautions that residents can take to protect themselves and their family against mosquito bites when outdoors.”, says Peel Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Lawrence Loh.
Peel Public Health recommends wearing light coloured, loose-fitting clothing, and the application of insect repellents to exposed skin and clothing. It is recommended to avoid shaded or wooded areas, and to take extra precautions when outdoors at dusk or dawn.
Standing water is the optimal breeding site for mosquitoes. Peel residents can help prevent the spread of WNV by removing or draining stagnant water from their household items. You can report stagnant water sites to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or online at peelregion.ca/health/vbd.
