September 27, 2002, Probable human cases of West Nile Virus in York Region

NEWMARKET - Preliminary tests indicate that three probable human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) in York Region have been identified.

All individuals – a 59-year-old Richmond Hill man, a 55-year-old Markham woman and a 31-year-old female visitor to Thornhill – are currently recovering at home and none have required hospitalization. Confirmatory tests will be conducted at Health Canada’s National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg, with results expected in about two weeks.

To date there have been nine confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus in Ontario. The death of a Mississauga resident on September 14th has been linked to the virus.

"This finding is not a surprise," said Dr. Hanif Kassam, York Region’s Associate Medical Officer of Health and Director, Public Health Programs. "Both positive birds and mosquitoes have been identified in York Region this season.

"Residents can be reassured that the risk of coming into contact with West Nile Virus is minimal and that personal protection from mosquitoes is still the best method to avoid exposure to the virus," added Dr. Kassam. "As a result of this new information on human cases, people should maintain increased vigilance."

West Nile Virus is a viral disease that can be spread to the human population by mosquitoes, which contract the disease after biting an infected bird. The WNV can cause illness in humans, especially the elderly and immune compromised population. Humans cannot get the virus from another person, animal or bird.

In most people, exposure will result in no symptoms. Others may have mild flu-like symptoms or a rash. In more serious cases – less than 1 per cent of all infected individuals – encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) can occur, causing severe muscle weakness, headache, stiff neck, vomiting, nausea and eventual deterioration of consciousness or mental state.

Residents are reminded of the following precautions:

Personal Protection

Minimize the time spent outdoors during evening hours, the night, and dawn when mosquitoes are most active

Wear light coloured, dense material clothing to reduce mosquito attraction and limit bite penetration

Wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, shoes and socks

Apply insect repellent containing DEET to skin when at risk of mosquito contact (When using a repellent, carefully read and follow the manufacturer's directions)

Around the Home

Eliminate stagnant or ponding water, which may develop in old pots, tires or pool covers, as this water provides breeding sites for mosquitoes

Ensure that all doors and windows have tight fitting screens in good repair

Always circulate and chlorinate swimming pool water

Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use

Change bird bath water twice weekly and aerate ornamental ponds

Ensure that roof gutters are clean and flow properly

Store small boats and canoes upside down. Cover large boats, keeping drains open

Eliminate all standing water around your home and property

Remind or help neighbours to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites on their properties

For more information, please call York Region Health Services Health Connection

at 1-800-361-5653.

For more information on the Regional Municipality of York, the services we offer and links to our nine area municipalities, please visit our Web site at www.region.york.on.ca

For additional information about this media release contact:

Kim Clark
York Region Health Services
905-830-4444 Ext. 4101

kim.clark@region.york.on.ca