News Release: September 10, 2018
Recent Heat Creates Potential for Increase in West Nile Virus Activity
Mississauga, ON (September 7, 2018) – Peel Public Health reminds residents to be vigilant against being bitten by mosquitos during the heart of West Nile virus (WNV) season.
“Late August and early September has seen exceptionally hot, humid weather. As temperatures rise, so does the chance of contracting WNV from mosquitoes — and we are seeing that with human cases being reported in Peel and across the province, says Dr. Lawrence Loh, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Region of Peel. “Even though it will be getting cooler in the evenings, it is still important to protect against mosquito bites during the fall months until there is a significant frost event,” he continued.
The recent weather patterns reinforce the need for all residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Most people who contract the disease will show no symptoms, but 20 per cent will experience mild flu-like symptoms, and about 1 in 150 will develop a more severe form of the disease.
Peel Public Health is encouraging everyone to make sure they protect themselves and their family from mosquito bites by doing the following:
- Avoid areas with high mosquito populations and take extra precautions at dusk and dawn when mosquito activity is highest.
- Wear light-coloured clothing that covers exposed skin, such as long sleeves, pants and a hat.
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET and apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- Remove or drain items on your property that hold stagnant water. Water that is stagnant for more than seven days is an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes. Report stagnant water sites to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or at peel-bugbite.ca.
- Register online at peel-bugbite.ca to receive email notifications and information about where mosquitos that have tested positive for West Nile virus found in Peel
For more information about West Nile virus, visit peel-bugbite.ca or call Region of Peel - Public Health at 905-799-7700 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Caledon residents can call toll free at 905-584-2216.
Media Contacts
Jeff LeMoineCommunications Specialist - Region of Peel, Public Health
289-325-4700
About Peel Region
In 2024, Peel Region marks its 50th anniversary. Peel Region works with residents and partners to create a healthy, safe, and connected Community for Life for approximately 1.5 million people and over 200,000 businesses in Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon. Peel's services touch the lives of residents every day. For more information explore peelregion.ca and follow us on X @regionofpeel and Instagram @peelregion.ca.
On December 13, 2023, the Ontario government announced that Peel Region will not be dissolved, and that Bill 112 legislation will be updated to reflect service delivery in Peel. Services for residents and businesses will continue without interruption. For updates and more information, visit Peel's transition page.
