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SWPH Reporting First Human Case of West Nile Virus

Monday, 14 September 2026 at 06:44

By Cody Hayward

Photo provided by Pexels.com

It's the first human case of West Nile virus in the Southwestern Public Health region since 2018.

SWPH - Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) has confirmed a human case of West Nile virus in the region.

The confirmation follows the detection of West Nile virus in mosquito pools collected in Woodstock and Tavistock through the health unit’s routine mosquito surveillance program.

West Nile virus activity typically increases during the summer months, with most locally acquired human infections occurring in August and September. Earlier this season, the virus was detected in mosquito pools collected on July 23, confirming activity within the region.

Residents are being reminded to take precautions to reduce their risk of mosquito bites. Health officials recommend using insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin, following label directions, and wearing light-coloured clothing, long sleeves and long pants when outdoors. Mosquitoes are particularly active around dawn and dusk.

Residents should also eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites around their properties by regularly emptying standing water from items such as buckets, flowerpots, toys, wheelbarrows and bird baths. Eavestroughs and drainage areas should be kept clean, while rain barrels, swimming pools and decorative ponds should be properly maintained.

Southwestern Public Health says it will continue monitoring West Nile virus activity through its mosquito surveillance program and is encouraging residents to continue taking precautions throughout mosquito season.

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