Health officials in York Region have confirmed the first detection of West Nile virus in local mosquitoes this summer.
Two mosquito traps in Markham, located at Warden Avenue and Highway 7 East and at Kennedy Road and 16th Avenue, tested positive for the virus.
Public health authorities monitor West Nile virus by deploying mosquito traps and conducting routine testing. The infection can spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Regional health teams apply larvicides in catch basins and stagnant public water sources to limit mosquito breeding. Testing of both mosquito populations and human cases is conducted on a weekly basis.
In Toronto, public health officials reported that one batch of mosquitoes has tested positive for West Nile virus. These were the first positive results in the city this year.
Earlier this month, Halton Region also recorded its first positive mosquito batch of the season. Urban environments are considered higher risk due to common breeding sites such as bird baths, plant pots, and discarded tires.
Most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms. Others may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
While the majority recover fully, a small number develop severe central nervous system illness, including encephalitis or meningitis. Those over 50 or with conditions such as cancer, diabetes, or kidney disease face greater risk.
Residents are advised to eliminate standing water from properties, maintain window screens, and use repellents containing DEET or icaridin. Wearing light-coloured, protective clothing and limiting outdoor activity at dusk and dawn further reduces exposure.
