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“With the virus now active locally, residents are advised to take immediate steps to protect themselves (and their property) from infected insects,” the city said in a  on Friday.

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness that, for most people, can cause mild flu-like symptoms, the city said. In rare cases, a bite from an infected mosquito can lead to serious sickness affecting the brain or nervous system.

Eight out of 10 infected people don’t develop any symptoms, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while around 10 per cent of people who develop serious illness affecting their central nervous system die.

Since there’s no vaccine, the city is urging residents to be proactive and take necessary measures, such as limiting time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours and applying effective insect repellents.

As mosquitoes only require a few millimetres of stagnant water to breed and lay eggs, residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water sources on their property to help prevent the spread of West Nile virus.

“The risk of contracting West Nile virus is low but rises as mosquito counts increase in summer,” the city said. “By following these recommendations, you can dramatically reduce your risk and help protect your community.”