Sudbury health unit warns of human West Nile case in city

Sudbury's health unit has confirmed an adult in Sudbury has tested positive for the West Nile virus.

It is the second confirmed human case in the Sudbury and District Health Unit's area. The first was in 2006 

Medical Officer of Health, Penny Sutcliffe, says it is important to take precautions.

Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts; long pants; shoes and socks when outside, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, she said. Use a Health Canada approved insect repellent and be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

People can become infected by mosquitoes that carry the virus, said Sutcliffe. However, the risk of becoming infected is low, and 80% do not show any symptoms.

Sometimes, those infected do suffer fever, headache, vomiting and a rash, and in some rare instances, a stiff neck, muscle weakness and confusion.