Point Edward, ON – Lambton Public Health’s West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance program confirms mosquitoes collected from a trap located in Petrolia on August 19, 2020 have tested positive for the virus.
This is the second positive result for the virus in Lambton County this year. There have been no positive human cases of WNV in Lambton County, but 2 human cases have been confirmed in Ontario at the time of this release.
Lambton Public Health continues to monitor for the virus. Weekly mosquito samples are collected throughout Lambton County.
Residents are reminded to take precautions to prevent exposure to mosquitoes, and to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their property.
To reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:
- Avoid areas with high mosquito populations.
- Take extra precautions from dusk to dawn when mosquito activity is high.
- Wear protective, light-coloured clothing.
- Use repellants containing DEET or Icaridin. Follow label instructions carefully.
To reduce mosquito breeding areas:
- Drain areas of standing or stagnant water on your property.
- Remove old tires and turn over pails, toys and wheelbarrows.
- Change water in bird baths (at least weekly).
- Keep eaves clear to avoid trapped water.
For more information call the West Nile virus info line at 519-383-3824, toll-free at 1-800-667-1839 ext. 3824, or online at www.lambtonpublichealth.ca.
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