Three mosquito traps in Chatham have tested positive for the West Nile virus.
According to a media release from CK Public Health, the insects were collected at sites in the northeast, northwest and southwest areas of the city Aug. 20.
They are the first positive instances identified from these traps this season.
Throughout the summer, West Nile has been detected throughout Chatham-Kent with mosquitos testing positive in Ridgetown, Dresden and Wheatley.
West Nile is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, but many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms.
However, some may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. In rare cases infected people may face more severe illness, including stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting and paralysis. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should seek medical attention, particularly older individuals and those with compromised immune systems.
People can protect themselves by wearing light coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks; using insect repellent with DEET; staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn), and ensuring window screens are tight and free of holes.
For more information, contact C-K Public Health.
