First human case of Western Nile virus in Windsor-Essex

The first human case of Western Nile virus this season has been confirmed.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (Wechu) says that a person has been tested positive.

The western Nile is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito and residents are invited to take precautions such as the port of Bund Spray, the elimination of the stagnant water from their property, the wearing of long sleeves and pants and reduce time outside during twilight and dawn.

“It is important for everyone to eliminate any stagnant water around their property and take personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites even though we are approaching fresher fall months,” said Dr. Aloosh, Windsor-Essex health doctor.

Wechu says that symptoms usually start to show within 2 to 14 days after a bite and can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body pain, rashes and swollen lymphatic glands.

People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are more at risk of serious illness.