In 2022, the Peel Region will have the first human case of West Nile virus.

Peel Region has verified its first human West Nile Virus infection in 2022.

The affected person resides in Brampton, according to the local health unit.

Peel Public Health monitors virus activity using 33 mosquito traps strategically placed around the district. From late June through September, mosquito traps are collected and examined on a weekly basis.

The health team also inspects public places for standing water that might serve as a mosquito breeding ground. Larvicide is applied to identified sites.

The first virus-positive mosquitoes of the year were verified in Peel Region in early August, although there were no human infections at the time. In Brampton, the infected insects were gathered from three traps near the junctions of Chinguacousy Road and Williams Parkway, Hurontario Street and Steeles Avenue, and The Gore Road and Cottrelle Boulevard.

Disease activity, according to authorities, varies year to year depending on rainfall and temperature.

"The number of adult mosquitos testing positive for WNV has been lower this year than in prior years," the area noted in a press statement.

The bite of an infected mosquito transmits West Nile virus to humans.

While the majority of persons who develop the disease have no symptoms, others may suffer moderate flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body soreness, slight rash, and enlarged lymph nodes. Infected persons can acquire a more severe version of the illness in rare situations.

When infected with West Nile, those over the age of 50, as well as those with weakened immune systems, are at the greatest risk of becoming extremely sick.

"While the overall risk of contracting West Nile Virus is decreased in the autumn months, these cases highlight the necessity of citizens protecting themselves from mosquito bites." Residents should eliminate standing water sources where mosquitoes can develop before the first frost of the season," Dr. Nicholas Brandon, Associate Medical Officer of Health of the Region of Peel, stated in a press release.

Peel people are recommended to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using an authorized insect repellent with an anti-mosquito component, such as DEET or icaridin, to exposed skin and clothes.

They are also urged to avoid mosquito-infested places and to take additional care between twilight and morning, when mosquitoes are most active, and at any time in or near shaded, forested regions.

To protect exposed skin, people should also wear light-colored, densely woven, loose-fitting clothes such as long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes, and socks, and ensuring that all window and door screens fit firmly and are free of rips and holes. Rain barrel openings should always be covered with a screen mesh.

Furthermore, Peel residents are encouraged to remove or drain things on their property that contain stagnant water since they provide a perfect hatching location for mosquitoes if kept stationary for more than seven days. These locations may be reported to Peel Public Health by calling 905-799-7700 or going online.