Toronto confirms first 2026 West Nile virus case

Toronto Public Health has confirmed the city’s first human case of West Nile virus in 2026. The infection was identified in an adult resident, according to the agency. West Nile virus spreads through bites from infected mosquitoes. Health officials said symptoms can appear two to 14 days after a bite and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, rash, swollen lymph glands and stiff neck. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness. Toronto Public Health is advising residents to reduce exposure by wearing long, lightcoloured clothing, using Health Canadaapproved insect repellent, removing standing water around homes, avoiding mosquitoheavy times such as dusk and dawn, and checking that window and door screens fit properly.