Residents of the Town of Rosemère are reminded of the importance of protecting themselves against mosquitoes, which can carry West Nile virus (WNV) and spread it to human beings and animals. WNV has been present in Quebec for many years now, especially in the southern part of the province. To keep on top of the situation, the Town of Rosemère works with an environmental consulting firm to analyze various areas of the community throughout the season. The results of the samples taken at the end of August showed the presence of WNV. Public health authorities (MSSS) were immediately informed of these results. 

Although WNV poses a health risk, it is important to remember that the likelihood of contracting the illness or developing complications remains very low in Canada. 

Control program in place 

Every year, the Town of Rosemère hires a specialized contractor to carry out a biological mosquito control program. This helps to limit mosquito proliferation, but everyone in the community also has a vital part to play.

Some simple mosquito protection measures 

There are some basic precautions that everyone can take to help reduce the risk of mosquito bites. These include: 

• Wearing light-coloured clothing that covers the arms and legs, especially at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Being particularly vigilant in damp and shaded areas, even if mosquitoes are not visible or troublesome. 
• Using mosquito repellent as recommended by the manufacturer. 
• Installing mosquito screens on all house windows. 
• Covering strollers and playpens with mosquito netting when outdoors. 

Residents are also advised against handling wild birds that are sick or dead. They may be WNV carriers. 

It is also essential to ensure that areas around the house and yard do not contribute to the spread of mosquitoes: empty any water that accumulates in children’s toys, pails, tools or garden furniture, and clean out eavestroughs on a regular basis. 

To learn more:

For additional information on the West Nile virus and how to prevent it, please refer to the Quebec government’s WNV website.