Health unit confirms another bird tests for West Nile Virus in Nipissing-Parry Sound

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is reminding residents to take precautions against West Nile Virus after a positive case was confirmed in a Broad-Winged Hawk on Friday.

The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative reported the positive case in a hawk collected in the Parry Sound, Unorganized, Centre Part area on Aug. 23.

This is the third confirmed case of the virus in a bird in the health unit region this year. Two American Crows collected in North Bay tested positive earlier in the summer.

“The detection of West Nile Virus is a reminder that the virus is present in the local wildlife in our community even as we approach the end of summer,” the health unit said in a news release Monday.

Mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus typically transmit it to birds and other wildlife, and occasionally to humans. While the risk of human infection is low, public health officials encourage all residents to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their families.

To reduce the risk of getting the virus, the health unit recommends the following:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin when outdoors, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

• Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to keep mosquitoes outside.

• Eliminate standing water around the home where mosquitoes breed, such as in bird baths, rain gutters, and planters.

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“Though most people with WNV do not show symptoms, residents are advised to monitor for symptoms," the health unit said.

"These may include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. Rarely, more severe neurological symptoms can occur. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider."

For more information on West Nile Virus and prevention, visit the Health Unit website.