Second Corbeil horse has West Nile

A second horse in Corbeil has been confirmed to have West Nile Virus.

Further information is included in the following news release issued today by the North Bay and District Health Unit:
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The North Bay & District Health Unit reports that a second horse in Corbeil has been confirmed with West Nile virus (WNV). This is the second confirmed case in the province this year as well as the second in our district. There were 10 presumed or confirmed positive cases among horses in Ontario in 2003 (none in Northern Ontario), down from 107 in 2002 (three in Northern Ontario).

Medical Officer of Health Dr Catherine Whiting said, “Confirmation of West Nile virus in the second horse indicates that the virus is in the area, so we encourage people to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites. Wearing long-sleeved tops, long pants, and socks and shoes, applying insect repellent containing DEET, and staying indoors between dusk and dawn are all sensible precautions. We should continue to be vigilant until the end of mosquito season.”

Mosquito trapping in the area has been conducted and the Health Unit is waiting for test results.

The Health Unit encourages residents to continue reporting sightings of dead crows, ravens and blue jays. The West Nile virus hotline can be reached at 474-1400, ext 487.

People are advised to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of illness due to bites from infected mosquitoes:
∙ When possible, avoid areas with high mosquito populations, including woods and wetlands.

∙ Take extra care when spending time outdoors between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
∙ Wear light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeves, pants, socks and shoes.
∙ Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET. For adults, look for repellents containing 30 per cent DEET. Children should wear a repellent with no more than six to 10 per cent DEET. Follow the recommendations by Health Canada and the Canadian Paediatric Society for applying insect repellant containing DEET on children.
∙ Install or repair window and door screens so that mosquitoes cannot get indoors.
∙ Drain any areas of standing or stagnant water on your property. Remove old tires, turn over pails, toys and wheelbarrows, and frequently change the water in birdbaths. Keep eavestroughs clear to avoid trapped water.


For more information, people may call the Health Unit at 474-1400 or visit www.nbdhu.on.ca.