Mosquitoes in Markham tested positive for West Nile virus

York Region tells residents to take safety precautions

Yorkregion.com
Aug. 3, 2021
Aileen Zangouei

York Region has reported mosquitoes testing positive for the West Nile virus.

According to a York Region report, one mosquito trap in Markham, near Steeles Avenue East and Bayview Avenue, has tested positive for the West Nile virus. The mosquito traps are set up by the region to monitor West Nile virus activity.

"West Nile virus can cause serious illness and is passed to humans if they are bitten by an infected mosquito," said Dr. Karim Kurji, York Region’s Medical Officer of Health. "Although the chance of being bitten by an infected mosquito is rare, residents are advised to take precautions when outside in the early morning and evening to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the chance of getting West Nile virus."

To protect yourself and family from the West Nile virus, follow these simple steps:

Get rid of mosquito-friendly areas at home;

Clean or remove standing water sources, including bird baths, flower pots, empty containers, clogged eavestroughs, swimming pool covers and outdoor toys like sand and water playsets or kiddie pools;

Ensure the window screens on your home are tight-fitting and in good repair;

Cover up while outside;

Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin -- check label directions for use;

Wear protective clothing, including socks, long-sleeved shirts and jackets;

Dress with lighter colours if possible as mosquitoes are attracted to darker colours;

Minimize outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active;

For more information on West Nile virus or to report standing water in your neighbourhood, contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-512-6228 or visit york.ca/westnile.