The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has reminded residents that West Nile Virus (WNV) is still an issue.
Health officials have reported an increase in cases from 2023.
As of Friday evening, eight mosquito pools in Windsor-Essex have tested positive for WNV. Five cases have been confirmed in humans.
The region reported only one human case in 2023, and two cases the year before.
"Removing standing water around your homes and workplaces to prevent mosquito breeding and protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites," said Windsor-Essex Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mehdi Aloosh.
Tips on how to protect yourself from WNV include the use of insect repellent; wearing pants, long-sleeved shirts, and hats while outside; limiting time spent outside when mosquitoes are most active, like dawn and dusk; removing standing water when possible; and checking door and window screens for holes.
Complete information on WNV can be found on the official WECHU website.
