West Nile Virus Activity Reported in Huron Perth

Huron Perth, ON - Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is reminding residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites after mosquitoes collected from traps in Stratford and southern Huron County tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). These are the first positive mosquito findings of the season for Huron and Perth counties; the findings indicate that WNV-positive mosquitos could be present anywhere in Huron and Perth. HPPH was also notified of an American Crow testing positive for WNV in the North Huron area. Crows are a known carrier of WNV.

“It’s not surprising to see positive mosquito pools in the month of August,” says Dale Lyttle, Senior Public Health Inspector. “People are at greatest risk of contracting West Nile virus in late summer, so it is important to protect yourself while outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.”

Mosquito Surveillance and Control Activities

As part of its annual surveillance, HPPH has been trapping and testing mosquitoes in locations across Huron and Perth since June 17. To help reduce mosquito breeding and lower the risk of potential WNV transmission, larvicide has been applied to roadside catch basins in Stratford, St. Marys, Listowel and Mitchell this summer.

West Nile Virus in Humans

In Ontario, three confirmed human cases of WNV have been reported in 2024. Not everyone who is bitten by an infected mosquito will show symptoms of the virus. Of those who do show symptoms, most will experience mild illness, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and a rash on the chest, stomach or back. About one in 150 people infected will get seriously ill, with symptoms like high fever, muscle weakness, vision loss and coma. WNV can lead to death.

Symptoms usually develop between two and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. People older than 50 and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk for WNV infection.

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by: 

• Using an insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin when outdoors. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• Covering up with light-colored clothes, long sleeves and pants when outdoors or in areas where mosquito activity is high.
• Taking extra protection measures between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Removing standing water around the home at least once a week to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.