By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquitoes from Tilbury and Chatham, CK Public Health Urges Vigilance
Mosquitoes collected in Tilbury and northwest Chatham have tested positive for West Nile Virus, CK Public Health confirmed Tuesday, marking the first positive cases from those surveillance traps this season.
The mosquitoes were captured on Aug. 19 as part of the municipality’s ongoing West Nile Virus monitoring program. The virus, which is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, poses a seasonal health risk across Ontario, particularly during late summer when mosquito activity peaks.
While most people infected with West Nile Virus show no symptoms, some may experience mild illness such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. In rare cases, the virus can lead to serious complications including neck stiffness, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting and even paralysis. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
CK Public Health is reminding residents to take precautions to reduce exposure to mosquitoes. Recommended measures include wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin, staying indoors during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn), repairing window and door screens, and eliminating standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding.
West Nile Virus has been present in Ontario since 2001, with annual cases fluctuating depending on weather conditions and mosquito populations. In 2022, Ontario reported 36 confirmed human cases, including one in Chatham-Kent.
CK Public Health continues to monitor mosquito activity through weekly trapping and testing. Surveillance data and prevention tips are available at ckphu.com. For more information, residents can also visit canada.ca or call CK Public Health at 519-352-7270.
