A local man has died because of the West Nile virus.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit said this is the first death of the season attributed to the virus. Health officials added that so far this year, 26 mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus throughout the area and eight human cases of the virus have been reported.
The health unit is reminding the public that West Nile virus continues to be a risk until the temperature drops below freezing. Health officials said most people with West Nile virus never develop symptoms and will not know that they have the virus. Approximately 25 per cent of people develop West Nile fever.
The health unit said residents should continue to protect themselves, as certain types of mosquitoes spread West Nile Virus, a potentially serious infection to humans. Residents should also eliminate any standing water around their home/property and take personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites like using insect repellents that contain DEET.
