News

Grand Erie Public Health has been notified of a Brant resident who has tested positive for the West Nile virus (WNv).

While most people do not become sick after being bitten by an infected mosquito, WNv can cause severe illness in others. Seniors and people with underlying illnesses are urged to be cautious, as they are more likely to develop the illness.

Residents should take the following steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes, especially when outdoors from early evening to morning, when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, as well as at any time in shady, wooded areas:

• Cover up. Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly woven fabric.
• Avoid being outdoors from early evening to morning when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, as well as at any time in shady, wooded areas.
• Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects. Change the water in bird baths at least once a week.
• Use an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET.

The most recent positive human case of West Nile virus was reported in Haldimand-Norfolk in 2024, and in Brant in 2020. This season, five mosquito pools in the City of Brantford tested positive for West Nile virus, with four of those pools identified at the same location.
For more information about West Nile virus visit www.bchu.org/westnile or www.hnhu.org/westnile or call Grand Erie Public Health at 519-753-4937 ext. 454.

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Quote(s)

“August and September are the peak months for West Nile virus activity in mosquitoes. While the risk of serious illness in humans remains low, cases are most likely to occur during this time. The best protection is prevention, and we encourage everyone to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.”

Filip Pajtondziev, Manager of Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health with Grand Erie Public Health.

Grand Erie Public Health

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is one of Ontario’s public health units. GEPH formed in January 2025 when the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and Brant County Health Unit merged. We are dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of communities within the County of Brant, City of Brantford, Haldimand County, and Norfolk County. Our work is guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards, ensuring that our programs and services meet the highest standards of public health practice. We are committed to fostering healthy communities through prevention, education, and health promotion, while working in collaboration with local partners to address the unique needs of our diverse populations.