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Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit confirms human case of West Nile

September 20, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By BRIAN LOCKHART

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites and the possible transmission of the West Nile virus.

After reporting that mosquitoes tested positive for the virus in Alliston on Sept. 4 and Barrie on Aug. 15, the SMDHU is warning the public about the first confirmed human case of West Nile Virus in the region. 

This is the first human case of the virus confirmed in the Simcoe Muskoka district this year.

Late summer and early fall is a prime time for possible infection from mosquitoes.

The virus circulates between birds and some species of mosquitoes and can be transmitted to a person by a mosquito bite if the mosquito has first bitten an infected bird.

While some people think that this time of year the risk of being bitten by a mosquito is reduced, mosquitoes are still active and can still pose a threat.

SMDHU’s surveillance program has shown that the rate of West Nile virus remains within local and historical norms.

While most people won’t become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito, the virus can cause severe illness in some people.

Symptoms include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, and a sudden sensitivity to light. In very rare cases, the virus may cause serious neurological illness.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice.

To avoid the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito, it is recommended you use an approved insect repellent, wear light-coloured clothing covering arms and legs in areas where mosquitoes are active, and try to stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active – from dusk to dawn. 

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