Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health says there is not a significant risk of the West Nile Virus spreading to the North Hastings area.
This comes after some mosquitoes in the Belleville area have been found to be carrying the virus. The health unit says recent flooding and ongoing rain could cause an increase in the local mosquito population this year.
Senior Public Health Inspector Andrew Landy says the findings come from tests done across Hastings County.
Landy also says it’s not very likely that mosquitoes carrying West Nile will spread to North Hastings.
The health unit reminds you mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so if you need to be outside, wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and hats to protect yourself. You should also wear insect repellent.
The health unit also says, if you come across a dead animal, it could be carrying the virus. It’s important to handle it with gloves, and bury it at least 50 centimetres underground in an area that won’t be disturbed.
Landy says the risk of mosquitoes carrying the virus typically declines towards the end of August.