Mosquitoes in Uxbridge Test Positive for West Nile Virus, Health Department Reports

Adult mosquitoes collected in Uxbridge have tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the Durham Region Health Department. This brings the total number of batches testing positive for the virus in Durham Region this season to 26, including five in Clarington, nine in Oshawa, four in Ajax, six in Pickering, one in Whitby, and one in Uxbridge.

The Health Department states that the infected mosquito batch was collected from a mosquito trap site in Uxbridge. According to the Health Department, traps are set up across the region and mosquitoes are submitted for laboratory testing weekly from June to September.

According to the Health Department, West Nile virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. The department reports that mosquitoes become infected by feeding on birds that carry the virus. The Health Department says the disease is not spread from person to person or from birds directly to people.

The Health Department states that most people who contract West Nile virus may experience mild symptoms, including fever, headache, body ache, nausea, vomiting, and a rash on the chest, stomach or back. According to the Health Department, more serious symptoms can include muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, tremors, numbness, and sudden sensitivity to light. The Health Department reports that symptoms usually develop between two and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

The Health Department notes that the risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus remains low. According to the Health Department, Durham Region treats regional catch basins and other stagnant water sites with larvicide to help reduce mosquito breeding.