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The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is notifying local residents that a dead crow has tested positive for West Nile virus.
The health unit says the positive test follows a recent detection of West Nile virus in a second mosquito pool in the county, though no human cases have been reported in the area.
With the recent detections indicating the disease is present in the region, WECHU says residents should take precautions against mosquito bites.
“Residents can significantly reduce their risk by preventing mosquito bites and removing standing water around their homes,” Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mehdi Aloosh said in a news release.
Humans can contract the virus after being bitten by an infected mosquito, with summer and fall months being the peak seasons for the spread of the virus.
The Public Health Agency of Canada says there is currently no specific treatment for West Nile virus, but patients can be treated for their symptoms.
While WECHU says most people infected with West Nile virus do not become ill, mild symptoms can include low fever and body aches. More severe symptoms include severe headaches, high fever, stiff neck and confusion.
The local health unit says residents can reduce the risk of infection by:
Using insect repellents that contain DEET, Icaridin or other approved ingredients on clothing as well as exposed skin. Always read and follow label directions.Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and a hat when outdoors. Light-coloured clothing is best, as mosquitoes tend to be attracted to dark colours.Limiting outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Removing any standing water in places such as bird baths, buckets, old tires, pet water dishes, and gutters around your property to prevent mosquito breeding.Make sure window and door screens fit and have no holes.Reporting standing water observed in the community by contacting 311or local municipal by-law enforcement.
WECHU is advising anyone who experiences a sudden onset of West Nile virus symptoms to contact their health provider or seek medical attention immediately. The health unit also urges anyone in the region who finds a dead bird to report it to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, and to not handle the animal with bare hands.