According to Niagara Region Public Health, a human case of the West Nile Virus has been confirmed in Niagara Falls, the first such case in 2025.
While the case was found in Niagara Falls, Niagara Region is cautioning all of its residents to take steps to protect themselves against the virus, which is transmitted through mosquito bites.
The vast majority of those who get infected with the West Nile Virus do not present symptoms. However, about two in 10 of those affected will experience symptoms much like the flu, as well as a general sense of fatigue. One per cent of those impacted experience severe symptoms, such as neck stiffness, confusion, weakness, light sensitivity, and severe headaches.
Those who are older or immunocompromised are at a greater risk of developing more severe symptoms.
Dr. Azim Kasmani, Niagara Region’s Medical Officer of Health, released a statement following the diagnosis.
“This year’s first human case of West Nile Virus in Niagara is an important signal that the virus is actively circulating,” said Kasmani. “At this point in the summer season, conditions are conducive to mosquito activity.”
“Now is the time for everyone to be proactive in protecting themselves and their families by taking precautions to reduce mosquito bites and remove mosquito breeding grounds from their homes.”
Public health has outlined a number of steps residents can take to try to avoid exposure, including draining standing water around the home; repairing damaged doors and window screens; wearing long-sleeved shirts, hats, long pants, socks, and shoes that cover the feet; and using insect repellant that contains DEET or Icaridin.
Mosquitos are often most active at dusk and dawn.
Niagara Region Public Health runs summer larviciding programs to help control mosquito populations in public spaces, but this does not impact mosquito populations on private property. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow the advice of public health to avoid exposure.
The first case of the West Nile Virus in Canada was detected back in 2002. The virus, according to public health, first infects birds and is spread to humans via mosquitoes.
Jay Goldberg is the Canadian Affairs Manager at the Consumer Choice Center. He previously served as the Ontario Director at the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and a policy fellow at the Munk School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Jay holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Toronto.
