Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus

July 22, 2024

Niagara Region Public Health is informing residents that Niagara has received its first confirmation of West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquitoes in 2024.

While the mosquitoes that tested positive were found in St. Catharines, all Niagara residents should take the following precautions to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, and potentially exposed to WNV:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when outdoors 
• Use mosquito repellent containing DEET or Icaridin, and carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions
• Drain areas of standing or stagnant water on your property regularly, including bird baths, old tires, pails, toys and wheelbarrows
• Ensure all windows and doors in your home have screens that are in good condition

As of this release, there have been no human WNV cases identified in Niagara so far in 2024.

Residents with inquiries about WNV can call 905-688-8248, ext. 7590, or 1-888-505-6074. Further information about WNV and updates can be found on our website.

Media contact

Courtney Westerhof
Niagara Region Public Health
905-688-8248  ext. 7303
courtney.westerhof@niagararegion.ca