Mosquitos in York, Halton regions test positive for West Nile virus

York Region Public Health and Halton Region have confirmed some mosquitos in the regions have tested positive for West Nile virus.

Mosquitos in York, Halton regions test positive for West Nile virus Findings mark the first positive cases for both regions this summer York Region Public Health has confirmed some mosquitos in the region have tested positive for West Nile virus. The positive tests were found in two mosquito traps in Markham and mark the region's first reports of the infection this summer, said the public health agency in a news release Thursday. But it's not the only region to detect West Nile virus after Halton Region confirmed on July 2 that a batch of trapped mosquitos had also tested positive.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitos. Mosquitos with the virus are more common in urban areas, said a news release by Halton Region. It said most people who are infected don't have any symptoms, but some may develop fever, headache, body aches, nausea and rashes.

While the majority of people "recover completely," the region said some go on to develop severe illnesses affecting the central nervous system. People over the age of 50 or with weakened immune systems are at a greater risk for severe disease. York and Halton regions recommend people take the following precautions: - Wear long, light-coloured clothing.

- Cover up between dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. - Use insect repellent with DEET or Icaridin. - Eliminate pools of water on your property, such as in planters, pool covers and waste containers.

- Ensure window and door screens are tight-fitted.