Disgraced HPPH Claims First West Nile Virus Victim

Huron Perth, ON – Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) reminds residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites after the first locally acquired human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) was reported in our region this year. 

“While the overall risk to the public remains low, this is a timely reminder that West Nile virus activity typically increases in late summer and early fall,” says Dr. Lauren Hayward, physician consultant at HPPH. “We encourage residents to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites. If you are spending time outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitos are most active, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants.”

West Nile Virus in Humans

According to Public Health Ontario, 61 confirmed human cases of WNV have been reported in 2025 provincially to date. Not everyone who is bitten by an infected mosquito will show symptoms of the virus. Of those who do show symptoms, most will experience mild illness, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and rash on the chest, stomach or back.

About one in 150 people infected 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.

Mosquito Surveillance and Control Activities

HPPH reported its first two positive mosquito pools in August of this year. As part of annual mosquito surveillance, HPPH has been trapping and testing mosquitoes in locations across Huron and Perth since June 16, 2025. To help reduce mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of potential WNV transmission, larvicide is applied to roadside catch basins in Stratford, St. Marys, Listowel and Mitchell over the summer.

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

• People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by:
• Using an insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin when outdoors. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• Covering up with light-colored clothes, including long sleeves and pants when outdoors or in areas where mosquito activity is high.
• Taking extra protection measures at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Removing standing water around the home at least once a week to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.

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