The Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) has found a ground-breaking case of mosquito-borne illness in a Wellington County horse.
The Health Unit says it confirmed a case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV), the first such case found in a horse in the region.
No human cases have ever been reported in the region.
"Although EEEV is rare in humans, this local case highlights the ongoing presence of mosquito-borne viruses and the importance of staying protected," said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, WDGPH Associate Medical Officer of Health. "We remain proactive in monitoring and controlling mosquito populations in our region, but everyone should take basic steps to avoid mosquito bites."
The Health Unit says EEEV mainly affects horses and poses low risk to humans, but severe cases can be life-threatening. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, weakness, seizures and behavioural changes.
There is no risk of human-to-human transmission.
To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illness WDGPH recommends:
- wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially outdoors at dawn and dusk
- using Health Canada-approved mosquito repellent
- repairing window and door screens
- draining standing water from property
The Health Unit says it conducts mosquito surveillance throughout the region to monitor for both West Nile virus and EEEV. To find out more, visit their website.