York Region reports first human case of West Nile virus

September 17, 2024

Newmarket – The Regional Municipality of York received laboratory confirmation an individual in the City of Vaughan has tested positive for West Nile virus, marking York Region’s first human case in 2024.

West Nile virus is transmitted from mosquitoes to humans, as well as from mosquitoes to animals and birds. Most people infected with West Nile virus will not have symptoms, but some will experience a mild flu-like illness. In rare cases, West Nile virus can be life threatening.

“While you are active outdoors, reduce your risk of being bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus by taking a few simple steps,” said Dr. Fareen Karachiwalla, York Region’s Acting Medical Officer of Health. “Remember to use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, wear light-coloured protective clothing when outdoors and remove standing water around your home in places such as flowerpots, swimming pool covers, bird baths and containers.”

York Region encourages residents to follow these simple Fight the Bite tips to reduce their chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:

  • Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin – check label directions for use
  • Wear light-coloured protective clothing, including pants and long-sleeved shirts
  • Clean or remove standing water sources, including bird baths, empty containers, swimming pool covers, outdoor toys and flower pots

Mosquito activity varies from year to year. It is important to know not all mosquitoes carry West Nile virus and the risk to residents remains low.

York Region’s annual West Nile virus control plan includes:

  • Mosquito control – mosquito populations are reduced through a process called larviciding, using provincially and federally approved pesticides
  • Mosquito surveillance – each week between June and October up to 40 mosquito traps are set up across the Region, capturing and testing mosquitoes for the virus

People who develop illness caused by West Nile virus may experience symptoms which include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headaches and a sudden sensitivity to light. In rare cases, the virus can cause serious neurological illness, including encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention.

No details about the individual are released for privacy reasons.

For more information on West Nile virus, visit york.ca/WestNile or contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653, TTY 1-866-512-6228.

The Regional Municipality of York consists of nine local cities and towns and provides a variety of programs and services to over 1.25 million residents and 57,000 businesses with more than 629,000 employees. More information about York Region’s key service areas is available at york.ca/RegionalServices

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Media Contact:

Lisa Cramarossa, Program Manager, Community and Health Services,
The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 289-716-1652
Email: @email