Health officials in Peel Region have confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in 2026. In a news release issued Wednesday, officials did not say where in the region the virus was contracted, but that the infection serves as a reminder for residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, “even into the fall months.” Peel Region reported on July 27 that it had identified the first mosquitoes in the area positive for West Nile virus. Since then, they said that its health unit had continued to monitor mosquito activity across Brampton, Mississauga, and Caledon. The news comes after the Toronto Public Health reported a positive human case of the virus in July. Symptoms of West Nile usually develop between two and 14 days after someone is bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, skin rash, swollen lymph glands and stiff neck. Peel Region is advising residents to apply an approved insect repellent containing an ingredient effecting against mosquitoes, such as DEET or icaridin, to exposed skin and clothing while outdoors. Officials note that infants younger than six months old should not use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Instead, use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a crib or stroller.
