For the first time in 2026, West Nile Virus has been detected in the Windsor-Essex region.
The Windsor Essex County Health Unit's routine monitoring of mosquito pools in the community positively identified the virus this week.
“Windsor and Essex County residents should continue to protect themselves against mosquitoes. This is an important reminder for everyone to remove standing water around our homes and workplaces to prevent mosquito breeding and protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites,” said Dr. Mehdi Aloosh, Medical Officer of Health, Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.
No human cases of the virus have been identified.
To help protect against mosquito bites, individuals are advised to use insect repellents that contain DEET, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a hat when outdoors and limit time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
