Niagara region confirms first mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus for 2026

Niagara Region Public Health is warning local residents that it has confirmed the first mosquitoes to test positive for the West Nile virus in Niagara this year.

The government agency runs a weekly mosquito surveillance, management and prevention program between June and September.

That program involves setting traps across the region to collect mosquitoes, which are then tested at a lab to identify the virus.

Niagara Region Public Health says the positive pool of mosquitoes was collected from one of those traps that was placed in the region.

They say no human West Nile virus cases have been identified in Niagara this year yet.

The West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

READ MORE: Halton region discovers first mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus this year

While the risk to most people is low, the agency suggests residents to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

They suggest wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, socks and shoes especially when outdoors, to reduce the amount of exposed skin.

Using insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin, removing standing water on properties regularly — including bird baths, old tires, pails, toys and wheelbarrows for example — and to ensure all windows and doors to homes have screens in good condition.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, body aches.

In more rare cases, people who are infected may also develop more severe illnesses such as inflammation of the brain or the lining of the brain.

If symptoms develop, they typically appear two to 14 days after an infected mosquito bite.

Anyone with questions surrounding West Nile virus can call 905-688-8248, ext. 7590, or by reaching out to 1-888-505-6074.

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