Public Health confirms first local human cast of West Nile Virus in Huron-Perth

According to Public Health Ontario, 61 confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) have been reported in 2025 provincially to date.

Recently, Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) confirmed the first locally acquired human case of WNV this year.

According to HPPH, not everyone who is bitten by an infected mosquito will show symptoms of the virus, but it’s best to protect yourself from mosquito bites to eliminate the risk.

“While the overall risk to the public remains low, this is a timely reminder that WNV activity typically increases in late summer and early fall,” reminds Dr. Lauren Hayward, physician consultant at HPPH.

“We encourage residents to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”

Of those who show symptoms, most will experience mild illness including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and rash on the chest, stomach or back.

According to HPPH, about one in 150 people infected with WNV 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 are most at risk for WNV infection as are those with weakened immune systems.

“If you are spending time outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitos are most active, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants,” reminds Dr. Hayward.

HPPH reported its first two positive mosquito pools in August of this year as part of annual mosquito surveillance.

For more information visit www.hpph.ca