Two horses in Lanark County have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus. Triple-e-V is normally found in wild birds but can occasionally spread to horses and humans through the bite of infected mosquitos. The mosquitos that carry the virus are usually found close to woodlands.
Although there has never been a reported human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Ontario, it can be a very serious neurological disease in all age groups and can cause death.
While a vaccine is available for horses, there is none for humans so the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is issuing a reminder to everyone to take precautions against mosquito bites.