SD&G – A mosquito pool in the five Eastern Ontario counties has tested positive for the West Nile virus, regional health officials confirmed this week.
However, the Eastern Ontario Health Unit did not disclose where the hit was registered in SD&G, Prescott and Russell.
The good news – there are no reported human cases.
“This finding shows that West Nile virus remains a concern in our area. Residents should be aware and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families,” said Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, the EOHU’s medical officer of health.
While the risk of West Nile virus to most people is low, some people with weakened immune systems or the very elderly can get very sick.
The infection attacks the central nervous system and can lead to muscle weakness and paralysis. There is no cure.
Evidence of the West Nile virus usually shows up in August. The health unit had two human cases last year.