West Nile virus has been confirmed in Lambton County for the first time this year.
Lambton Public Health said mosquitoes collected from a trap in Petrolia August 28 tested positive.
The agency said there have been no positive human cases in the county, but two human cases have been confirmed in Ontario so far in 2019.
Health Protection Supervisor Lori Lucas said mosquitoes stay active until the first or second frost of the year.
"So it's important to avoid areas with high mosquito populations if possible -- we know that's not always practical, but taking extra precautions from dusk till dawn when mosquito activity is high is good, wearing protective, light-coloured clothing, and also using repellents containing DEET or icaridin and following the label instructions very carefully."
Lucas said mosquitoes typically breed in standing or stagnant water, so it's important to drain areas of water on your property.
"So removing any old tires, turning over any pails, children's toys, wheelbarrows where that water accumulates," said Lucas. "Also changing water in birdbaths often is important, and keeping your eaves trough cleared to avoid trapped water in those areas."
West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, the majority of people infected with the virus do not get sick.
Those that do, usually experience mild flu-like symptoms like fever, headache, skin rash or muscle aches.
Less than 1 per cent of people infected with the virus become seriously ill.
In an effort to track the West Nile virus, residents are asked to report sightings of all dead birds by calling 519-383-3824, toll-free at 1-800-667-1839 or online at www.lambtonhealth.on.ca.
