West Nile Virus Found in East Ferris Crow

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) is advising residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes after the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative confirmed a positive case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a local American Crow on July 8, 2025.

This is the first confirmed case of WNV in a bird in the Health Unit region this year. In 2024, the Health Unit was notified of WNV in three birds, and one horse tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis, another mosquito-borne disease.

Mosquitoes infected with WNV typically transmit it to birds and other wildlife, and occasionally to humans. While the risk of human infection is low, the Health Unit recommends the following to reduce the risk of contracting WNV:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin when outdoors, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Eliminate standing water around the home where mosquitoes breed, such as in bird baths, rain gutters, and planters.

Though most people with WNV do not show symptoms, residents are advised to monitor for symptoms. These may include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. Rarely, more severe neurological symptoms can occur. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

For more information on WNV and prevention measures, visit myhealthunit.ca/westnile.