Sudbury area horse tests positive for West Nile virus
Mosquito trapping in affected area will increase, local health unit says
The West Nile virus has made its way to Sudbury, after a horse in the area tested positive for the mosquito-borne disease.
The local health unit said the horse did not travel outside the area, making it likely the virus was contracted within the Sudbury region. The health unit has said it will increase mosquito trapping near in the area where the horse was identified.
The virus is transmitted when someone is bitten by a mosquito carrying the disease. No evidence exists to suggest the virus can be transmitted from horses to humans.
There has been only one human case of the illness in Sudbury, back in 2006. If humans do contract the virus, it usually only causes mild illness.
Residents are advised to cover up when outdoors, wear light-coloured clothing and use repellants to protect against mosquitos.