West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in Hamilton for the first time this year, according to the local public health agency.
Mosquitoes trapped in Hamilton this week tested positive for the virus, prompting the city’s medical officer of health to move the risk of West Nile from low to moderate.
Most people infected with West Nile will have no symptoms but about 20 per cent, including older adults or people with weakened immune symptoms, could experience West Nile fever. One per cent may develop more severe illness, such as inflammation of the brain or lining of the brain.
If symptoms do occur, they appear two to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Residents are being reminded to protect themselves against bites by using a mosquito repellent and wearing light-coloured, long sleeve shirts and pants when in wooded areas or in a garden.
Standing water should be removed at least weekly to prevent breeding.
READ MORE: Mosquitoes in Niagara Region test positive for West Nile Virus: public health