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What is West Nile Virus (WNV)?

WNV is a disease spread to people through the bite ofan infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected bybiting an infected bird.

What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?

In humans, most infections of the virus result inno symptoms. If symptoms develop, the most commonsymptoms are:

fever extreme tiredness frontal headache muscle aches

skin rashMore serious symptoms can include:

neck stiffness muscle weakness confusion

you are feeling very sick your symptoms are not getting better

you have concerns

your symptoms are getting worse

Rarely, WNV can be fatal.

It may take from three to 15 days for symptomsto appear. It is difficult to tell WNV from many

other infections. Most people will recover withoutany treatment. See your doctor if:

Extreme swelling or infection at the site of amosquito bite is another reason to seek medicalhelp but it does not mean you have WNV.

WEST NILE VIRUS

How can I prevent mosquito bites?

Avoid areas with high mosquito populations

Wear light-coloured clothing and cover exposedskin by wearing long sleeves, pants and a hat

Use a mosquito repellent and follow themanufacturers instructions

Take extra precautions from dusk to dawn whenmosquitoes are most active

Check all window and door screens in yourhome to ensure there are no tears or holes formosquitoes to get through

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MOSQUITOESOUT OFTOUCH

Reduce the risk of illness for yourself and your family.Learn how to recognize the symptoms, prevent mosquito bites and reduce

mosquito breeding sites on your property.

has been identified in your neighbourhood

Register online at www.peel-bugbite.to receive email notifications of positiWNV activity in Peel.

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How can I reduce mosquito breeding sites?

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water that is presentfor more than a week. Here is what you can do tohelp reduce the mosquito breeding sites aroundyour home:

Recycle/dispose of old tires, plastic containers,

paint cans or other containers that can hold water Drain water regularly from rain barrels and

swimming pool covers

Make sure your eavestroughs, flowerpots,window boxes and planters drain properly

Change the water in bird baths at least oncea week

Drill holes in the bottom of recycling and trashcontainers to allow water to drain

Turn over all yard items including wheelbarrows,canoes, toys and plastic wading pools todrain water

Remind or help your neighbours to eliminatebreeding sites on their properties

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MOSQUITOESOUT OFTOUCH

Where can I find more information aboutWest Nile Virus?

Visit www.peel-bugbite.ca.

Register online at www.peel-bugbiteto receive email notifications of posWNV activity in Peel.

Call Region of Peel Public HealthMonday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.at 905-799-7700. Caledon residents calltoll free at 905-584-2216.

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