West Nile detected in Northumberland County.
Mosquito. By Rapha Wilde. Free Use Domain. Upsplash.
The West Nile Virus has been detected in dead American Crows in Northumberland County.
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit received lab results from The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) on Wednesday, confirming that two American Crows who were found deceased in Hamilton Township, tested positive for West Nile virus.
The finding is not unusual, as the virus is typically detected around this time of year through routine mosquito surveillance.
"Finding West Nile virus in a bird indicates that the virus is present in our environment, and residents should take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites," said Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health. "We urge everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites and help eliminate potential breeding sites for mosquitoes around their homes and properties."
West Nile virus is a viral infection primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While not all mosquitoes carry the virus, it is important to stay informed and take precautions during the peak mosquito season, typically from late spring to early fall. While no positive human cases have been detected this year, the presence of the virus in birds serves as a reminder of the ongoing risk.
