West Nile Virus, found mainly in wild birds, is spread when mosquitoes bite infected birds, and then bite another bird, animal, or human.  It is usually a mild disease, and symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle ache, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rash.  In some cases the disease may progress to a more severe stage with symptoms that can include disorientation, coma, and even death. In its most serious state, West Nile Virus infection can cause an inflammation in the brain, otherwise known as encephalitis.


West Nile Virus was not found in North America until 1999, when an outbreak occurred in and around New York City.  That outbreak caused 61 cases and 7 deaths.  In 2001, the disease moved into Canada with the first cases occurring in Southern Ontario. The disease has been and continues to be a risk nationwide every year.  Antibiotics are not effective against the infection, and there is no vaccine which humans can use to protect themselves against the virus. Alternative steps people can take to help protect themselves and the community against mosquitoes include:

1. Minimizing your exposure to mosquitoes; and

2. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites around your home and vacation property.


Some areas in the U.S. and Canada have undertaken widespread pesticide spraying in an attempt to control larvae and mosquitoes.  Alternative steps people can take to help protect themselves and the community against mosquitoes include personal protective measures and breeding site reduction. 

Lyme disease is another vector-borne disease and is becoming increasingly prevalent in Canada. More information on what it is and how to prevent it can be found on our website by clicking here