Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Stop mosquito bites and protect yourself from West Nile virus
When spending time outside, mosquito bites are common. Everyone is at risk of getting West Nile virus. Preventing mosquito bites is important to protect yourself and your family. Mosquitoes in our area have been confirmed in past years to carry West Nile virus, and people have become ill.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms, but some people may experience mild symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, mild rash, and swollen lymph glands. In rare cases, the infection can affect the brain and cause serious illness with symptoms such as severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty swallowing, nausea or vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness, muscle weakness, and paralysis, along with high fevers. In these cases, West Nile virus infection can be fatal.
Although the overall risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus is low, Public Health reminds everyone to take simple steps to prevent mosquito bites:
- Use an approved insect repellent and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Avoid going outside at dusk and dawn, as these are peak times for mosquito activity.
- Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outside.
- Check your window and door screens to ensure that there are no tears or holes for mosquitoes to get through.
- Consider the use of mesh “bug jackets” or “bug hats.”
Mosquitoes need only a small amount of calm, standing water to lay their eggs and for larvae to hatch. Reduce mosquito breeding areas by changing or removing standing water at least once a week from the following areas:
- bird baths
- old tires
- containers, barrels
- flowerpot saucers
- swimming pool covers, wading pools
- clogged gutters and eaves troughs
- clogged drainage ditches
- small containers like cans or bottle tops
- unused children’s toys
For more information on West Nile virus, please visit our website at phsd.ca or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200, ext. 464 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).
|