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| TODAY'S NEWS | SEARCH THE NEWSROOM | NEWS BY MINISTRY |
TORONTO, July 24 /CNW/ - Dr. Colin D'Cunha, Commissioner of Public Health
and Chief Medical Officer of Health for Ontario along with Dr. Michael
Corriveau, Medical Officer of Health for Renfrew, today reported that an
individual in the Renfrew county area is the first Ontario resident to test
positive for West Nile Virus this year.
This first case is believed to be travel-related as the individual
recently returned from a trip to a U.S. state where there is known West Nile
virus activity and confirmed human cases. The individual tested positive with
the IgM ELISA test, introduced to the province this year and is recovering at
home. Parallel confirmatory testing is being done and the local health unit is
continuing to do investigative follow-up.
"Although this first case appears to be acquired during travel outside
the province, we have been expecting positive human cases this year in
Ontario. This demonstrates more than ever our need to remain vigilant against
this virus," said D'Cunha.
Renfrew County has not recorded any positive mosquito pools in 2003, but
has recorded one positive bird, which was not located within the vicinity of
the residence of this individual.
"The Renfrew County District Health Unit continues to proactively monitor
for West Nile virus activity, and is implementing larviciding in the area of
the positive bird," said Dr. Corriveau.
D'Cunha advises Ontarians to continue to rigorously follow the advice and
guidance that he and public health officials have been giving Ontarians since
West Nile virus first appeared in Ontario in 2001.
"Be vigilant in taking measures to avoid mosquito bites. This includes
reducing breeding sites around your home such as all standing water, and
wearing protective clothing when active outdoors in mosquito prone areas,"
said D'Cunha. "As well, apply an insect repellent with up to 30 per cent
concentration of DEET for adults and 10 per cent for children following
manufacturer's directions carefully."
Ontario has an aggressive seven point plan introduced this spring to help
fight West Nile virus. This includes an investment of $100 million over five
years, with $33 million this year alone.
West Nile virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Mosquitoes become infected by biting an infected bird. The virus is not spread
by person-to-person contact.
This news release is available on our website at: www.health.gov.on.ca
Version française disponible
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For further information: Members of the media - Tanya Cholakov, (416) 314-6197, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care; Members of the general public: (416) 327-4327, or (800) 268-1154
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