For the first time this year, a Lambton County resident has tested positive for West Nile Virus.
Lambton Public Health (LPH) announced the first lab-confirmed human case of the year on Tuesday. There have been 42 human cases reported across Ontario.
The last time a human case of West Nile Virus was reported in Lambton County was in September 2020.
Multiple mosquito pools have tested positive for the virus over the past few months in areas such as Sarnia, Wyoming, Corunna, and Forest.
"This positive human case is a reminder for Lambton County residents to remain vigilant in taking precautions to prevent exposure to mosquitos and to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their property," read an LPH media release.
The health unit said mosquito season is not over until frost and low temperatures stop mosquito breeding.
Residents can reduce their risk of contacting West Nile Virus by avoiding mosquitoes and removing standing water on their property.
West Nile Virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While most people who contract the virus will not get sick, those who do will usually experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, skin rash, or muscle aches.
The health unit previously said fewer than one per cent of people infected with the virus become seriously ill.
More information about West Nile Virus can be found on the health unit's website.
