Toronto Public Health reports first case of West Nile virus in 2018

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Toronto Public Health (TPH) has reported its first human case of West Nile virus this year.

According to TPH, the agency received laboratory confirmation that an adult resident in Toronto has tested positive for the virus, which is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.

The agency says the individual was hospitalized for their illness and is recovering at home.

“While the risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus in Toronto is very low, now is a good time to remind residents of the ways they can protect themselves from mosquito bites and help reduce the risk of infection,” said Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health.

Toronto Public Health recommends the following prevention tips to protect residents from mosquito bites:

Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors
Apply insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin and follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Take extra care during peak mosquito biting time (dusk and dawn) by using mosquito repellent and wearing protective clothing
Remove standing water from your property, where mosquitoes can breed
Ensure your home has tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.

West Nile virus symptoms usually develop between two and 15 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.

Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands.

If you or a family member has concerns about any symptoms, the TPH asks you to contact your health care provider.

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