The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites following confirmation that mosquitoes collected from a trap in the City of Barrie tested positive for the West Nile virus (WNv).
As of Aug. 12, no confirmed human cases of the mosquito-borne viral disease have been reported in Simcoe Muskoka in 2024. However, a dead bird found in Oro-Medonte in July also tested positive for WNv.
West Nile virus circulates between birds and some species of mosquitoes. The virus can be transmitted to humans by a mosquito bite, if the mosquito has first bitten an infected bird.
“We monitor mosquito populations by setting mosquito traps and looking for larvae in selected locations,” says Ramien Sereshk, program coordinator of SMDHU’s Healthy Environment and Vector-Borne Diseases program. “Positive test results are a reminder that we all need to continue to take appropriate measures to protect ourselves against WNv at this time of year, and the best way to do this is by protecting yourself from mosquito bites.”
The risk of contracting WNv from an infected mosquito is highest in late summer. The health unit recommends the following personal protection measures:
- Use an approved mosquito repellent and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wear light-coloured clothing and cover up in areas where mosquitoes are present.
Although most people will not become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito, WNv can cause severe illness in some people. Symptoms of WNv include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache and a sudden sensitivity to light. In very rare cases, the virus may cause serious neurological illness. Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice.
The health unit continues its surveillance for the virus throughout Simcoe Muskoka for the remainder of the summer.
Anyone with concerns about a dead bird can contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) at 1-866-673-4781.
For more information about WNv visit smdhu.org or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.