Mosquitoes caught in Dresden have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
The insects were caught on August 25, with Chatham-Kent (CK) Public Health sending them to be tested shortly after.
These are the first mosquitoes to test positive this season in CK. Several mosquitoes tested positive in 2025.
Most people who get infected with the West Nile Virus won't experience any symptoms.
Some may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue.
In rare cases, people can experience stiff neck, nausea, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and paralysis. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
To help limit your chances of being bitten by a mosquito, you should wear light-coloured clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, use insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin, stay indoors from dusk to dawn, ensure that all door and window screens are tight and free of holes, and get rid of any standing water on your property to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
More information on West Nile Virus can be found online.
