The Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) has announced the first case of West Nile virus detected in mosquitoes within Renfrew County and District this year, following the discovery of the virus in a mosquito sample collected from Arnprior.
This finding represents the first positive mosquito group identified in the area for 2026 through the health unit’s regular surveillance program. RCDHU keeps an eye on West Nile virus activity every summer by utilizing 13 mosquito trapping sites across Renfrew County and District. Mosquitoes gathered from these traps are tested weekly throughout the season.
Even though infected mosquitoes have now been found locally, the health unit reports that there have been no human cases of West Nile virus documented in Renfrew County and District so far this year.
“RCDHU has received confirmation of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in Renfrew County and District,” said Dr. Jason Morgenstern, medical officer of health for RCDHU. “While the risk of infection is low, this is an important reminder for everyone to prevent mosquito bites and reduce breeding sites.”
West Nile virus spreads to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes. Although most individuals who get infected never show symptoms, some might experience fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, or vomiting.
The health unit states that about one in 150 people infected with West Nile virus may develop severe illness affecting the central nervous system, which can include encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms of severe illness might include a stiff neck, confusion, tremors, numbness, or sudden sensitivity to light. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of serious illness and should seek medical help promptly if severe symptoms arise.
RCDHU encourages residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, especially between dusk and dawn when they are most active. Suggested measures include wearing long sleeves and long pants, using Health Canada-approved insect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin, and eliminating standing water around homes, cottages, and campsites where mosquitoes could breed.
Residents are also advised to keep shrubs trimmed, turn compost piles regularly, and ensure window and door screens fit tightly to help keep mosquitoes out of homes and businesses.
More information about West Nile virus along with prevention tips can be found through the Renfrew County and District Health Unit.
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