A mosquito trap in Listowel has tested positive for West Nile Virus. Huron Perth Public Health said the positive test marks the first detection of West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes this season in Huron and Perth counties. “It’s not surprising to see West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes in the month of August,” said Dale Lyttle, senior public health inspector. “During the late summer months, people are at the greatest risk of contracting West Nile virus, so it is important to protect yourself while outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.” Public health officials said mosquito surveillance has been underway across Huron and Perth counties since June 15 as part of the health unit’s annual monitoring program. The program includes trapping and testing mosquitoes at multiple locations throughout the region to detect the presence of the virus. To help reduce mosquito populations, larvicide is applied during the summer months to roadside catch basins in communities where West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes have been identified historically Stratford, St. Marys, Listowel and Mitchell. West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Public health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, and reducing standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed.
