This year's 1st human case of West Nile Virus has been reported in Windsor-Essex

Ottawa turns to drones to kill mosquitoes and fight West Nile Virus

1 month ago

Duration 2:15

Richard Trudel, scientific advisor with GDG Environment, says the drones can carry a significant amount of larvicide and are very efficient in getting it where it needs to be to cut down on mosquitoes in Ottawa.

The local health unit is reporting its first human case of West Nile Virus in 2024.

The person is only described as an "adult resident." The only other detail provided by officials is that the virus was transmitted througha mosquito bite.

"While the risk of getting infected in Windsor-Essex is currently low, this positive human case is a reminder for residents to continue to protect themselves," said the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), in a statement.

Last year, the first case of the year was reported in October.

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The health unit says most people with the virus will not even know and never develop symptoms.

If symptoms do start, they'll normally show up between two and14 days after being bitten. They include things such asfever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands.

"People over the age of 50, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe disease."

The health unit suggests the following tips to help protect people from mosquito bites:

• Apply insect repellents that are approved by Health Canada and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat when outdoors. Light-coloured clothing is best as mosquitoes tend to be attracted to dark colours.

• Limit the time you spend outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

• Remove any standing water in places such as bird baths, buckets, old tires, pet water dishes and gutters around your property.

• Make sure that door and window screens fit securely and are hole-free.

• Call 311 or your local by-law enforcement for standing water observed in your community.