Mosquitoes captured in five traps across York Region have tested positive for West Nile virus, bringing the regional total to eight positive traps for the season, according to Helen Chow, supervisor of health protection, community and health services at York Region. The recent detections follow earlier findings in July, when York officials recorded two positive traps in Markham and one in Newmarket.
Where Positive York Region Traps Were Located
As of the week of August 7, newly positive traps were identified in Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Richmond Hill, and East Gwillimbury, according to Helen Chow. These findings expand the geographic footprint of the virus across the region compared to the earlier July detections in Markham and Newmarket. Separately, York Region Public Health noted that a trap set up at Weston and Rutherford roads in Vaughan also tested positive this summer, marking an initial local detection highlighted by municipal officials.
Comparison With Toronto Human Cases
The discovery in York Region comes just a week after Toronto reported its first human case of West Nile virus of 2026, according to Toronto Public Health (TPH). TPH did not disclose the specific age or neighborhood of the adult patient. For context on seasonal severity, Toronto Public Health recorded 78 confirmed and probable human cases of the virus in 2025. Meanwhile, York Region Public Health reported that no human cases of West Nile have been confirmed in York Region this summer.
Pro Tip: To protect your household, York Region Public Health recommends getting rid of standing water in bird baths, flowerpots, swimming pool covers, and clogged eavestroughs where mosquitoes breed. Ensure window screens are tight-fitting and use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin.
York Region Control and Prevention Measures
To combat the spread of the virus, York Region Public Health executes a comprehensive West Nile virus Control Plan. According to municipal releases, the agency applies larvicides in catch basins along regional and municipal roads, as well as in stagnant public water sources such as roadside ditches. Beyond vector control, public health staff actively investigate human cases, monitor mosquito populations through trapping, and educate residents on personal protection methods like wearing light-coloured protective clothing, including pants and long-sleeved shirts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is West Nile virus spread to humans?
The virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, according to York Region Public Health.
Who should I contact for more information on West Nile virus in York?
Residents can contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653, dial 711 with a TTY device, or visit the official York Region website, according to municipal advisories.
What personal protection steps are recommended?
Public health officials advise using insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, wearing light-coloured protective clothing, and ensuring home window screens are in good repair.
Stay Informed
Have you noticed an increase in mosquito activity in your neighborhood? Share your observations in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for local health updates.
Keep reading