No human cases reported by officials
Niagara Region Public Health has confirmed the first mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been detected in the region this year.
There are no human cases reported, but health officials are reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and removing standing water around their homes where mosquitoes can breed.
Most people infected with West Nile virus never develop symptoms, but some can experience fever, headaches and body aches.
In rare cases, the virus can lead to serious neurological illness, especially in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Public Health says it will continue its mosquito surveillance and larvicide program throughout the summer to help reduce the mosquito population and monitor the spread of the virus.
(Written by: Brandon Warby)