Mosquito trap in Vaughan tests positive for West Nile Virus

NEWS RELEASE
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK
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The Regional Municipality of York monitors West Nile virus activity by setting mosquito traps and testing for West Nile virus. A mosquito trap in the City of Vaughan near Weston Road and Rutherford Road has tested positive for West Nile virus.
 
“Positive mosquitoes are the first indication of the presence of West Nile virus each season,” said Dr. Barry Pakes, York Region Medical Officer of Health. “While the chance of being bitten by an infected mosquito is very low, there are many precautions we can take to stay safe when enjoying the outdoors.”
 
West Nile virus is not transmitted person-to-person but passed to humans if they are bitten by an infected mosquito. To protect yourself and family from West Nile virus, follow these simple steps:
 
Cover up while outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin – check label directions for use
• Wear protective clothing, including socks, long-sleeved shirts and jackets
• Dress with lighter colours if possible as mosquitoes are attracted to darker colours

Get rid of mosquito-friendly areas at home

• Clean or remove standing water sources, including bird baths, flower pots, empty containers, clogged eavestroughs, swimming pool covers and outdoor toys like sand and water playsets or kiddie pools
• Ensure the window screens on your home are tight-fitting and in good repair

As part of York Region’s West Nile virus control plan, York Region Public Health educates residents on self-protection, investigates human cases and conducts surveillance.
 
Public Health uses larvicide in catch basins to control mosquito breeding along Regional and municipal roads and in other stagnant public water sources, including roadside ditches. Private backyard catch basins are treated upon request.
 
Watch the Fight the Bite video to learn more about symptoms and how to protect yourself from West Nile virus.
 
To review the current status of West Nile virus in Ontario, visit Public Health Ontario's West Nile Virus Surveillance Tool.
 
For more information on West Nile virus or to report standing water in your neighbourhood, please contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-512-6228 or visit york.ca/westnile  

The Regional Municipality of York consists of nine local cities and towns and provides a variety of programs and services to 1.2 million residents and 54,000 businesses with 650,000 employees. More information about the Region’s key service areas is available at york.ca/regionalservices.

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