Horse in Peterborough Region Tests Positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV)
Written by Comms Team, September 6, 2023
Residents Reminded to Protect Themselves from Mosquito Bites
Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites following a positive horse case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) in the Peterborough region, last week. This is the first equine case in our region and the sixth confirmed in Ontario this year.
EEEV is transmitted to horses through mosquito bites. Like West Nile Virus, EEEV can also be transmitted to humans through mosquitoes carrying the virus. It is important to note that humans cannot acquire the virus from horses or other humans, it is only the bite of an infected mosquito that can transmit the disease to humans. While human infection of EEEV is extremely rare, the symptoms can be severe and life threatening. The best way to prevent an infection of EEEV is to prevent mosquito bites.
Preventing Mosquito Bites:
- Wear long sleeved, light coloured clothing, or special clothing (e.g., clothing treated with permethrin) designed to protect you from bugs
- Use mesh screens and close routes of entry (e.g. windows, doors) to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home
- Stay indoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or icardin
- Remove sources of stagnant/standing water from your property to prevent mosquito breeding
Learn more about EEEV and preventing mosquito bites at https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/your-health/insects-rodents-other-pests/eastern-equine-encephalitis-virus-eeev/
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For further information, please contact:
Media Relations
Media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca