West Nile has come to the Niagara Region.
Niagara Region Public Health has received its first confirmation of the virus in mosquitoesÂ
Manager of Environmental Health Peter Jekel says this is not usual - on average 5 to 10 pools test positive in the Niagara Region every year.
"What we do is set up traps in all our municipalities - in the more urbanized [areas] we set up several traps - and we did hit a positive [pool] last week in St Catharines as well as the Pelham area."
All residents are encouraged to be cautious: to reduce your risk of being bitten wear long sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks and shoes when outdoors, drain standing water regularly, and make sure all window and door screens are in good condition.
Residents with questions or concerns about West Nile Virus can call 905-688-8248, ext. 7590, or 1-888-505-6074. Further information about West Nile Virus and updates can be found online at www.niagararegion.ca/health.