Public health officials are urging residents to take extra care after an American Crow tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) in the Brockville area.
It’s the first confirmed bird case in the South East Health Unit region this year.
WNV is spread to humans through mosquito bites after mosquitoes feed on infected birds. Symptoms can range from mild fever to serious conditions like encephalitis.
The South East Health Unit continues to monitor bird and mosquito samples across the region.
Officials say risk remains as mosquitoes are still active in summer months. They urge people to cover up during dawn and dusk, wear light-coloured clothing, use insect repellents with DEET or Icaridin, and remove standing water from properties.
Residents should avoid handling dead birds with bare hands and report them to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.