First West Nile virus victim confirmed in York Region
Yorkregion.com
Aug. 19, 2016
By Lisa Queen
York Region has its first human case of West Nile virus this year, according to the region’s public health department.
Lab results confirmed a Markham resident has tested positive for the disease, the unit announced Friday, Aug. 19.
The department won’t release any personal information about the person, not confirming if it is a man or woman or his or her age, spokesperson Joe Chawla said.
The person has not exhibited any symptoms, he added.
“Education and awareness are key to avoiding West Nile virus infection,” medical officer of health, Dr. Karim Kurji, said in a statement.
“Remember to cover up or stay inside during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.”
Spread through mosquitoes, most people who contract West Nile will not have any symptoms.
Others may develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle weakness. More serious symptoms include stiff neck, confusion, severe headaches and a sudden sensitivity to light.
In rare cases, the virus can cause serious neurological illness including encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.
Public health offers a number of “Fight the Bite” tips to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes:
- Limit outdoor activities in the early morning and early evening, when mosquitoes are most active
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, pants and socks
- Use insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors
- Clean or remove standing water sources, including bird baths, empty containers, outdoor toys and flower pots.
Two mosquito traps in the region have tested positive for the virus this year, public health said. For more information on West Nile virus , visit york.ca/health or contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653,TTY 1-866-252-993.
