Second horse tests positive for mosquito-borne illness

A second horse in Eastern Ontario has tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis virus.

PHOTO CREDIT - Eastern Ontario Health Unit

Cornwall - Sep. 16, 2011 - A second horse has tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis virus.

Because the virus can only be transmitted to a human through the bite of an infected mosquito, the Eastern Ontario Health Unit urges residents to take precautions.

Both horses were identified within the same area.

“Although there have been no confirmed human cases in Ontario, it’s important to realize that mosquitoes will still be active until the first frost. For this reason, we urge all residents to keep on taking preventive measures to protect themselves and their families,” explains Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health.

Some simple steps include:

- Using insect repellent containing DEET as per manufacturer’s directions
- Covering up with long sleeves and pants
- Avoiding going outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active

For more information, call the Eastern Ontario Health Unit at 613-933-1375 or at 1-800-267-7120 and ask for Health Line.