Dead crow in Guelph tests positive for West Nile virus
A dead crow found in Guelph has tested positive for the West Nile virus.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, who was notified of the results, said no human cases of the illness have been reported.
'The detection of West Nile Virus in a dead bird in our region means that mosquitoes capable of transmitting the virus are present locally,' Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, the unit's associate medical officer of health, said in Wednesday's media release. 'While the risk of severe illness is low, we encourage everyone to take simple precautions to prevent mosquito bites.'
The virus is primarily spread by mosquitoes. While most people do not experience any symptoms, some may develop a fever, headache, body aches, mild rash or swollen lymph glands. In very rare cases, fewer than one per cent, symptoms can be more severe and affect the central nervous system. Symptoms include headaches, a high fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, drowsiness and confusion. Those could eventually lead to loss of consciousness, lack of coordination, muscle weakness, paralysis or even death.
Mild cases typically recover within a week, while people with serious complications could still experience symptoms months or even years after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health shared the following prevention tips:
Wear light-coloured clothing outdoors
Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors
Use an approved mosquito repellant
Repair holes in screen doors and windows
Remove standing water from your property so they don't become a breeding ground for mosquitoes (drain flowerpots, kids' pools, bird baths, other water features)
Dead birds can be reported for testing to Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
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