The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNv) in the County of Simcoe.

WNv spreads between birds and certain types of mosquitoes. Humans can become infected if bitten by a mosquito that has previously fed on an infected bird. Locally, the health unit’s surveillance program has shown that WNv activity remains within the usual levels for this area.

The risk of getting WNv from an infected mosquito is highest in late summer and early fall. Although most people will not become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito, WNv can cause severe illness in some people. Symptoms of WNv include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache and a sudden sensitivity to light. In very rare cases, the virus may cause serious neurological illness. Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice.

For more information about WNv and protecting yourself from mosquito bites, visit smdhu.org/WNv or call 705- 721-7520, ext. 8811.