York Region Reports First Human Case of West Nile virus in 2026

September 02, 2026

Newmarket – York Region Public Health has confirmed an individual in the City of Vaughan has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv), marking York Region’s first human case in 2026.

West Nile virus spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Most people who get West Nile virus do not feel sick. Some people may develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, tiredness or muscle weakness. In rare cases, West Nile virus can be life threatening and can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), particularly in older adults and people with a weakened immune system. Residents who experience any of these symptoms are advised to seek medical attention.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been found in most municipalities across York Region this summer. Human cases of West Nile virus are not unusual and York Region typically has a few cases reported each year around this time. Residents are encouraged to take simple steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

To protect yourself from mosquito bites, York Region Public Health encourages everyone to:

  • Use a Health Canada approved insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin and follow the label directions
  • Wear long sleeves, long pants and light-coloured clothing when outdoors (e.g., gardening, walking, hiking)
  • Remove standing water around your home such as water in buckets, flowerpots, toys, bird baths and pool covers

York Region monitors mosquitoes each summer and takes steps to help reduce mosquito populations across the Region, including larviciding using provincially/federally approved pesticides.

For more information about West Nile virus and how to protect yourself, visit york.ca/WestNile or contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or dial 711 with a TTY device.

The Regional Municipality of York consists of nine local cities and towns and provides a variety of programs and services to 1.3 million residents and 58,000 businesses with approximately 624,000 employees. More information about York Region’s key service areas is available at york.ca/RegionalServices

-30-

Media Contact:

Hayden Casey, Communications Associate, Community and Health Services, The Regional Municipality of York | Phone: 289-763-5045, Email: [email protected] | After Hours: 905-806-1216, [email protected]