Last month a crow in Brockville also tested positive for West Nile
The South East Health Unit (SEHU) has confirmed one case and reported a second probable case of West Nile Virus in northern Leeds County. The cases involve residents in the Rideau Lakes/Westport area and the Smiths Falls area.
These are the first human cases of the virus identified in southeastern Ontario this year. Since June, mosquito monitoring has found positive pools in the region, and last month a crow in Brockville also tested positive for West Nile.
The virus spreads from infected birds to humans and animals through mosquito bites. Four out of five people show no symptoms, but some may develop flu-like illness. Fewer than one per cent develop severe neurological disease, which can be fatal.
Health officials stress there is no vaccine or treatment, making prevention critical. They urge residents to wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and remove standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding.
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