Halton Region has reported its first West Nile virus-related death since 2002, the victim being a Burlington woman in her 70s.

The region's health department said Tuesday in a news release it has found the virus in mosquitoes for the past five consecutive weeks.

This shows an elevated risk for contracting the illness in Halton, it said.

The region's medical officer of health is urging residents to take precautions.

“August and September are the months of highest WNV activity in mosquitoes and when human cases are most likely to occur,” Dr. Bob Nosal said in the release.

“While the risk of serious illness is low, it is prudent for all Halton residents, and especially older persons, to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”

About 80 per cent of those bitten by a mosquito infected with the virus won't become noticeably ill, the region said.

The vast majority of those with the virus might experience the following symptoms:

  • chills
  • headache
  • muscle aches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • a rash

Less than one infected person in 1,000 dies or develops a neurological disease such as brain inflammation or paralysis of one or more limbs.

"The risk for serious illness from WNV goes up with increasing age and in people with underlying illnesses," the release said.

Halton's worst year for West Nile was in 2002, with 60 cases. Since then, there have been four years with no human cases and another four with between one and five human cases.

To reduce the risk of being infected, the region recommends residents take the following steps:

  • wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirt and pants with tightly-woven fabric
  • mosquitoes are most active from early evening to early morning. They are always active in shady, wooded areas
  • when outdoors, use an insect repellent containing DEET
  • make sure your home's window screens are well-fitted and in good repair
  • eliminate standing water around your home
  • change the water in birdbaths at least once per week

Halton Region has a map that shows where positive mosquito pools are located, as well as ponds that have been treated with larvicide, available on its website.

"To report standing water or for more information about West Nile virus, please dial 311 or call Halton Region at 905-825-6000, toll free 1-866-4HALTON (1-866-442-5866), TTY 905-827-9833 or e-mail wnv@halton.ca," it said.