West Nile virus detected in Markham mosquito traps; York Region urges precautions
Two mosquito traps near Warden Avenue and Kennedy Road tested positive, marking the first detection in the area this summer.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
York Region Public Health has detected West Nile virus in two mosquito traps in Markham, the first confirmed cases in the area this summer.
The positive samples came from traps at the Warden Avenue and Highway 7 East area and the Kennedy Road and 16th Avenue area. York Region monitors for West Nile activity by setting and testing mosquito traps across the region.
West Nile symptoms typically appear within two to 15 days after a bite and can include fever, headache, body aches, a mild rash, and swollen lymph glands. Health officials recommend residents eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed—in bird baths, flowerpots, pool covers, and clogged eavestroughs—and use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Wearing light-coloured protective clothing with long sleeves and pants also reduces risk.
At a glance
Where was West Nile virus detected in Markham?
West Nile virus was found in mosquito traps at two locations in Markham: the Warden Avenue and Highway 7 East area, and the Kennedy Road and 16th Avenue area.
What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
West Nile symptoms typically appear within two to 15 days after a bite and can include fever, headache, body aches, a mild rash, and swollen lymph glands.
How can residents reduce their risk of West Nile virus?
York Region recommends eliminating standing water in bird baths, flowerpots, pool covers, and clogged eavestroughs, using insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, and wearing light-coloured protective clothing with long sleeves and pants.
