Ten people have tested positive for West Nile Virus in Ottawa so far this year. Ottawa Public Health reported the first case of the mosquito-borne virus in Ottawa in early September. According to the public health website, 10 cases of West Nile Virus have been confirmed in Ottawa, as of Oct. 1. Twenty-four mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile Virus so far this year. Ottawa Public Health reported 10 cases of West Nile Virus in 2025, and 13 cases in 2024. There have been 74 cases of West Nile Virus across Ontario so far this year. “Unlike most mosquitoes found deep in the forest or in wilderness environments, WNV is spread mainly by Culex pipiens mosquitoes, a type of mosquito that thrives in urban settings, around homes, neighbourhood parks, and places where water collects,” Ottawa Public Health said on its website. “Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness from WNV, but anyone can be infected. It’s important for residents to continue to prevent mosquito bites until the first hard frost, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants at dusk/dawn, and removing standing water around their home.” The health unit offers the following tips to eliminate mosquitoes around your property:
