Mosquitos collected from a trap in Southern Bruce County have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).
A microbiology laboratory in St. Catharines reported the positive test result to Grey Bruce Public Health this week. The mosquito pool, which yielded the positive result, was retrieved from Brockton and sent for testing on September 26, 2023.
This marks the first mosquito trap in Grey-Bruce to test positive for WNV this year. Ontario has recorded 300 mosquito pools testing positive for WNV, the highest year-to-date total since 2017.
So far this year, 33 individuals in Ontario have tested positive for the virus, with Grey-Bruce not having reported a lab-confirmed human case of WNV since 2018.
West Nile Virus is typically transmitted between birds and certain mosquito species. Human infection can occur through mosquito bites if the mosquito has previously fed on an infected bird. While the risk of contracting WNV from an infected mosquito remains very low, it is typically highest towards the end of the mosquito season in late summer.
To minimize the risk of WNV, individuals are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using insect repellent containing DEET, reducing mosquito breeding sites near homes by eliminating standing water areas, and ensuring screens on windows and doors are secure and free of holes.
Those infected with WNV may experience mild symptoms such as fever and headaches within two to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Although rare, severe symptoms can occur.
