Public health officials have confirmed the first presence of West Nile virus in Brantford and the County of Brant this year, after mosquitoes collected in a residential neighbourhood tested positive for the virus.
The discovery comes from Grand Erie Public Health’s ongoing mosquito surveillance program.
Officials say recent warm and wet conditions have created favourable breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
“This is the first confirmed positive mosquito pool for West Nile virus this season,” said Filip Pajtondziev, Manager of Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health.
“While no human cases have been reported, this finding confirms that the virus is circulating in our community.”
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which becomes infected after feeding on birds carrying the virus.
Most people exposed to the virus do not develop symptoms, but the illness can be severe, particularly for older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Public health is urging residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of infection:
- Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants in tightly woven fabrics.
- Avoid outdoor activity from early evening to morning, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Eliminate standing water around homes, including in bird baths, buckets, and outdoor containers.
- Use insect repellents containing DEET.
Grand Erie Public Health continues to monitor mosquito activity in the region and encourages residents to report standing water by calling 519-753-4937, ext. 444.
Additional information about West Nile virus is available at www.bchu.org/westnile or www.hnhu.org/westnile.
