Peel Public Health confirms first West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes for 2026

BRAMPTON, ON (Jul. 27, 2026) – Peel Public Health has identified the first mosquitoes positive for West Nile virus in Peel region. The mosquitoes were collected from a trap in Brampton near the intersection of Queen St East and Kennedy Rd North.

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease passed to humans from the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms. In some cases, symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting or skin rash. Rarely, the virus can cause serious illness, such as swelling of the brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (meningitis).

Older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain chronic health conditions, are at higher risk for serious complications. Peel Public Health has not confirmed any human cases of West Nile virus to date this year.

"Finding mosquitoes that are positive for West Nile virus at this point in the season is not unexpected, but it serves as an important reminder that prevention is our best defence," said Dr. Nicholas Brandon, Associate Medical Officer of Health for Peel Public Health.

Peel Public Health wants to remind residents of some simple actions that can protect against mosquito bites:

• Apply a Health Canada-approved insect repellent containing an ingredient effective against mosquitoes, such as DEET or icaridin, to exposed skin and clothing. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For additional information on choosing an insect repellent, please refer to personal insect repellants.
  Infants younger than 6 months old should not use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Instead, use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a crib or stroller.
• Infants younger than 6 months old should not use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Instead, use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a crib or stroller.
• Wear light-coloured, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing, such as long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes, and socks, to protect exposed skin.
• Avoid wooded areas with high mosquito populations and take extra precautions during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Ensure all windows and door screens fit securely and are free of tears and holes.
• Remove or drain items on their property that hold stagnant water. Water that is stagnant for more than 7 days is an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes. Report stagnant water on public property to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 (or toll-free at 1-888-919-7800). Report stagnant water sites on private property (e.g. unmaintained swimming pools) to your local municipality by calling 311.

Peel Public Health monitors West Nile virus activity through 33 mosquito traps across Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. Mosquitoes from the traps are collected and tested weekly from mid-June to September. Peel Public Health also helps minimize mosquito populations by treating regional catch basins and other stagnant water sites with a larvicide to help reduce breeding.

Residents can learn more information on West Nile virus, and register for email notifications about mosquito activity in Peel region.