(JULY 17, 2025) — The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are notifying the public that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in Northumberland County. This is the first confirmed case of WNV in the area this year.

The Health Unit received lab results from The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, confirming that two American Crows who were found deceased in Hamilton Township, Northumberland County, have both tested positive for West Nile virus. The finding of WNV in the Health Unit area is not unusual, as the virus is typically detected around this time of year through routine mosquito surveillance.

West Nile virus is a viral infection primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While not all mosquitoes carry the virus, it is important to stay informed and take precautions during the peak mosquito season, typically from late spring to early fall. The Health Unit actively monitors WNV activity throughout the summer by conducting mosquito trapping and surveillance across the region. While no positive human cases have been detected this year, the presence of the virus in birds serve as a reminder of the ongoing risk.

"Finding West Nile virus in a bird indicates that the virus is present in our environment, and residents should take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites," said Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health. "We urge everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites and help eliminate potential breeding sites for mosquitoes around their homes and properties."

West Nile Virus Prevention: Cover Up and Clean Up

• Prevent Bites: When outdoors from dusk to dawn, wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. Use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin. Keep windows and doors closed or properly screened to stop mosquitoes from getting inside.
• Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Remove standing water around your home, cottage or campsite — mosquitoes lay eggs in even small amounts of water, like in birdbaths, old tires and containers. Trim overgrown shrubs, clear debris, and turn compost piles regularly.

West Nile virus is primarily spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with WNV will not exhibit symptoms, however, some may experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and neck stiffness. In rare cases, WNV can lead to more severe symptoms, including confusion, tremors and sudden sensitivity to light, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

For more information about West Nile virus surveillance and prevention, please visit hkpr.on.ca/WNV or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/west-nile-virus.

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Did You Know We Merged? 
As of January 1, 2025, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health merged to form the Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Public Health (legal name only).  
 
Efforts are currently underway to develop an operational name and a brand identity. In the meantime, you will see logos and other marketing material from both legacy organizations. You may also see references and documents using the legal name Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Public Health. 

Partners and members of the public should continue to engage with their local public health offices as usual until otherwise directed.