Wawa avian tests positive for West Nile disease

In the peak mosquito season, Algoma, Canada, emphasizes preventive measures to minimize mosquito bites and reduce breeding sites as a means to combat West Nile virus. Although specific guidelines for Algoma may not be readily available, general health recommendations for West Nile virus prevention in mosquito-prone regions of Canada are applicable.

To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, it's advisable to use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 when spending time outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Additionally, wearing long sleeves and pants can help protect your skin from bites. To avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours, it's best to stay indoors mainly from evening to early morning.

Eliminating standing water around homes and communities is another crucial step in preventing mosquito breeding. This includes checking gutters, birdbaths, flower pots, tires, and any containers where mosquitoes might breed. Screening windows and doors can also help prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.

For location-specific and up-to-date advice, contacting Algoma Public Health directly or following their official communications, such as their Instagram account, is recommended during the season. This is particularly important given the first human West Nile virus case in Canada was confirmed recently in 2025, signaling the relevance of vigilance.

It's essential to note that the West Nile virus is not known to spread from person-to-person, nor directly from bird-to-person. A mosquito becomes infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. About one in five people infected with West Nile may experience mild illness including fever, headache, body ache, nausea, vomiting, and rash on the chest, stomach, or back. Severe symptoms, such as muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, tremors, numbness, and sudden sensitivity to light, are rare and more likely to develop in older individuals and those who are immunocompromised.

Residents can further protect themselves from bites by wearing light-coloured clothing when outdoors, as mosquitoes are attracted to darker colours. Most people who contract West Nile virus will not feel any symptoms. Algoma Public Health does not accept dead birds. If you find a dead bird on your property, you can contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative to learn more about their surveillance and submission programs.

The West Nile virus has been detected in birds, mosquitoes, horses, and humans in Ontario since the summer of 2001. No further information about the specific strain or severity of the virus in this case is provided. For more information about West Nile virus, you can click here.

Stay informed and stay safe! Always consult your local health authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information on West Nile virus prevention in your area.

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