Second positive finding of West Nile Virus

SIMCOE MUSKOKA — Alliston may be a long way from Muskoka, but not as the crow flies — especially involving mosquitoes and the West Nile Virus.

A second West Nile Virus case has been confirmed in Alliston.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is reminding residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites following the season’s second positive finding of West Nile virus (WNV) in mosquitoes.

The mosquitoes were collected from a trap in Alliston; the first positive mosquitoes were identified in Bradford West Gwillimbury.

They say protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites by:

Using an approved mosquito repellent, following the manufacturer’s instructions

Wearing light-coloured clothing and covering up in areas where mosquitoes are active

Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially at dusk and dawn

Reducing mosquito breeding sites by removing standing water around your house or cottage.

The health unit is continuing surveillance for WNV in the area as well as throughout Simcoe Muskoka.

For more information visit the health unit website at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.