Niagara Region Public Health has confirmed that the first West Nile virus-positive mosquito pool of the season has been found in St. Catharines.
No human cases of the virus have been reported in Niagara, but Niagara Region Public Health warns anyone is at risk of being bitten and area residents are advised to take precautions.
Public health recommends that people wear long-sleeve shirts and socks and shoes when outdoors, and use mosquito repellent that contains DEET or icaridin. Residents are also encouraged to reduce or remove standing water where mosquitos can breed.
West Nile Virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. A mosquito can become infected by biting an infected bird.
Ontario Public Health states that while most people infected with the West Nile virus do not show symptoms some can get fever, head and body aches, fatigue, rash, meningitis or encephalitis.