Latest news with #MosquitoAbatementDistrict
CTV News
7 hours ago
- Health
- CTV News
West Nile virus detected in Hamilton, health unit says
A mosquito feeds at the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District on July 26, 2023, in Salt Lake City. Mosquitoes can carry viruses including dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika. They are especially threatening to public health in Asia and Africa but are also closely monitored in the United States. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) The first human case of West Nile virus has been detected in Hamilton, the city's health unit says. Hamilton Public Health Services say the reported case has prompted them to boost the risk of contracting the virus in the region from moderate to high. 'Residents are reminded to protect themselves against mosquito bites and to remove standing water from private property to prevent mosquito breeding,' Monday's news release reads. The health unit adds about 80 per cent of people infected with West Nile virus will not present any symptoms. That said, infected older individuals or those with weakened immune systems may experience fever or develop more serious symptoms, like inflammation of the brain. Hamilton Public Health Services adds this happens to about one per cent of those who contract the virus. Symptoms can be present between two to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. 'It is important to take precautions to avoid illnesses spread by insects including West Nile Virus, Lyme disease, and Eastern equine encephalitis,' Dr. Bart Harvey, associate medical officer of health, said in a release. 'Employing simple preventive measures such as using insect repellent containing DEET or Icardin, covering up, and removing standing water on your property to prevent mosquito breeding will reduce your risk while you enjoy the outdoors.' Harvey adds the risk of contracting West Nile virus drops as soon as heavy frost blankets a city, as it reduces the number of mosquitos. A handful of residents throughout southern Ontario have been infected by the mosquito-borne virus, with positive cases being reported out of Barrie, Toronto and Vaughan, as well as the Niagara and Windsor regions.
CBS News
07-08-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Invasive mosquito located at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton
Officials in the East Bay urged residents to take precautions after the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito was recently found at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. According to the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District, larvae was found in a trap at the fairgrounds in Pleasanton on July 30. Several Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were found in the same area in October of last year. Before last year's discoveries, the mosquito was not seen in the county since 2014. Dr. Eric Haas-Stapleton, the district's laboratory director, said Monday, "We responded the next day by increasing our mosquito monitoring, inspection, and treatment efforts at the Alameda County Fairgrounds and surrounding neighborhoods." Also known as the yellow fever mosquito, officials said Aedes aegypti can spread multiple diseases, including dengue and Zika. The mosquito is described as aggressive and bites throughout the day. Officials urged residents in Pleasanton and throughout the county to inspect their properties for standing water. The mosquitoes are container breeders, laying eggs in small water sources such as buckets, pet dishes, fountains, bird baths and old tires. Aedes aegypti eggs are extremely small and are often mistaken for dirt or seeds. The mosquito can grow from an egg into an adult in as little as a bottle cap of water, officials said. Adult Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are described as less than a quarter inch long, with black and white stripes on its back and legs. The district said the non-native mosquito has been found in at least 26 of California's 58 counties, including neighboring counties. Residents are urged to protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeve shirts, pants, socks and shoes when mosquitoes are most active and to ensure window and door screens are in good condition. Anyone who sees the mosquitoes are urged to contact the district through their website or by calling 510-783-7744.
