A dead bird found in Bradford West Gwillimbury has yielded a positive test for West Nile virus according to the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU).
The SMDHU was notified of the positive test by Public Health Ontario, which is the first lab-confirmed evidence of West Nile virus in the region in 2025.
However, no confirmed mosquito pools or human cases have been confirmed in the area yet by the unit.
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SPREAD
West Nile virus circulates between birds and some species of mosquitoes. The virus can be transmitted to humans or other animals by a mosquito bite if the mosquito has first fed on an infected bird.
The risk of contracting the virus from an infected mosquito is highest in late summer. The typical season for it is mid-April to November.
Birds like crows, blue jays, and ravens are particularly susceptible to West Nile virus.
PREVENTION
The SMDHU recommends the following personal protection measures:
- Use an approved mosquito repellent, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wear light-coloured clothing and cover up in areas where mosquitoes are present.
- Stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active – at dusk and dawn – when possible.
SYMPTOMS
- Fever
- Muscle weakness
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Severe headache
- Sudden sensitivity to light
- Brain illness (in rare cases)
Although most people will not become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito, the virus can cause severe illness in some people.
The health unit is continuing its surveillance for the virus throughout the region.
Last recorded in 2022, Public Health Agency of Canada reported 47 human cases of West Nile Virus for that year.
Earlier this month, the City of Toronto collected three batches of mosquitos which tested positive for the virus. Other positive tests have been confirmed in other parts of the GTA.
