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Toronto Public Health reports first probable human case of West Nile Virus in 2024

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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News Release

August 16, 2024

Toronto Public Health reports first probable human case of West Nile Virus in 2024

Toronto Public Health (TPH) has reported its first probable human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in an adult resident this year. WNV is an infection transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Residents can take the following steps to help protect themselves from WNV:
• Wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.
• Applying an insect repellent approved by Health Canada at https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/about-pesticides/insect-repellents.html by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Taking extra care during peak mosquito-biting time (dusk and dawn) by using mosquito repellent and wearing protective clothing.
• Removing standing water from one’s property where mosquitos can breed.
• Ensuring screens are tight-fitting on windows and doors.

WNV symptoms usually start to show between two and 14 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. Older individuals or people with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness. Anyone concerned about any symptoms should contact their health care provider.

More information about WNV and ways to reduce the risk of being infected with WNV are available on the City’s West Nile virus webpage: www.toronto.ca/west-nile-virus/.

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture, innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit www.toronto.ca or follow us on X at www.x.com/CityofToronto, on Instagram at www.instagram.com/cityofto or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cityofto.  

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Media contact: Toronto Public Health Media Relations: TPHmedia@toronto.ca
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