Positive case of West Nile virus in a bird reported by Public Health Sudbury & Districts

Public Health Sudbury & Districts has received confirmation that an American Crow in the Greater Sudbury area tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv).

Through Public Health’s surveillance activities to date, the virus has not been detected in any mosquitos collected this year. WNv positive mosquitoes were last detected in the area in 2018.

“In our service area this year, there have been no confirmed cases of people being infected with the virus or mosquitoes carrying the virus. However, this positive bird reminds us that although the overall risk of a person becoming infected is low, the virus is still present,” said Jon Groulx, a manager in Public Health’s Health Protection division. “Therefore, taking precautions to avoid becoming infected with West Nile virus is important,” added Groulx.

West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes get the virus by feeding on infected birds. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms while others may experience mild symptoms including fever, headache, body aches, mild rash, and swollen lymph glands. In very rare cases the infection can affect the central nervous system and cause serious symptoms.

Late summer is typically the time of greatest risk for contracting West Nile virus.  Mosquitoes can carry higher levels of the virus at this time, and this is when people might not be as careful about protecting themselves from mosquito bites. Here are some simple measures you can take to continue to protect yourself and your family:

Reduce the risk around the home

• Install or repair screens. Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having well-fitting screens on all your windows and doors.
• Remove standing water from around your home where mosquitoes can breed.

Personal precautions

• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outside, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use an approved insect repellent and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Anyone with concerns about a dead bird can contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1.866.673.4781.

For more information about West Nile virus, please contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 ( toll-free at 1.866.522.9200) or visit www.phsd.ca.