11 Cases of Western Nile Virus Reported in Laurentians Following Mosquito Activity Surge

Urgent Health Alert: West Nile Virus Cases Rising in Laurentides Region

Montreal, Quebec – September 20, 2025 – Public health officials in the Laurentides region of Quebec are issuing a warning after a recent surge in West Nile Virus cases. Since the end of summer 2024,eleven cases have been identified,wiht a majority-nine-contracted locally,according to the CISSS des Laurentides.

This uptick is linked to the increased activity of infected mosquitoes carrying the virus.These mosquitoes become carriers after feeding on wild birds, which serve as a host for the virus. Health officials emphasize the late-summer period as critical for prevention as mosquitoes have had increased time to become infected.

To mitigate risk, residents are advised to take proactive prevention measures including applying insect repellent containing DEET or icaridine, and eliminating areas of standing water around their homes. These areas provide breeding grounds for the mosquito population.

The period of highest risk spans from April through the first hard frost of the season.

Risk Factor	Prevention Method
Infected Mosquitoes	Use insect repellent with DEET or Icaridine
Standing Water	Eliminate stagnant water sources around your property
Peak season	April – First Frost

Pro Tip: The most effective time to apply mosquito repellent is immediately before you go outside.

Did You Know? Many bird species are naturally immune to the West Nile virus but act as reservoirs, contributing to the spread amongst mosquito populations.

The CISSS des Laurentides encourages anyone experiencing symptoms possibly related to West Nile Virus to contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Questions & Answers

What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?

Approximately 80% of people infected with the West Nile Virus experience no symptoms. however, around 20% develop West Nile fever, which includes symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes a rash. A small percentage of cases can progress to severe neurological illness.

How can I protect myself from West Nile virus?

protecting yourself involves preventing mosquito bites.Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk). Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridine, and eliminate standing water around your property.

Stay Informed:

For ongoing updates and further data, listen to CIME FM at 103.9 – 101.3 – 104.9 (Laurentians) or 102.1 (East Ontario) or download the cogeco Média mobile application.

What are the primary mosquito vectors responsible for transmitting West Nile Virus in North America?

11 Cases of west Nile Virus Reported in Laurentians Following Mosquito Activity Surge

Understanding the Recent West Nile Virus Outbreak

Recent reports indicate a concerning rise in West Nile Virus (WNV) cases in the Laurentians region. As of today, September 20, 2025, public health officials have confirmed 11 cases of the virus, directly linked to a significant surge in mosquito activity throughout the area. This article, brought to you by archyde.com, will detail the current situation, symptoms, prevention methods, and available treatment options for West Nile Virus.

what is West Nile Virus?

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can affect humans, birds, horses, and other mammals. it’s caused by the West Nile Virus, a member of the flavivirus family.while many people infected with WNV experience no symptoms,a percentage will develop West Nile Virus symptoms ranging from mild flu-like illness to severe neurological disease.

Transmission & Mosquito Vectors

The virus is primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The main vectors responsible for transmitting WNV in North America include:

* Culex species mosquitoes – these are common household mosquitoes.

* Other mosquito species can also carry and transmit the virus,though less frequently.

Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Humans and other mammals are then infected when bitten by these infected mosquitoes. Mosquito control efforts are crucial in minimizing transmission.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus

The severity of West Nile Virus infection varies greatly. Approximately 80% of infected individuals show no symptoms. However, for those who do, symptoms typically appear between 2 and 14 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

Mild Symptoms (West nile Fever)

These symptoms usually resolve on thier own within a few days:

* Fever

* Headache

* Body aches

* Fatigue

* Skin rash

* Swollen lymph nodes

Severe symptoms (West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease)

A smaller percentage of infected individuals (less than 1%) develop more serious neurological complications. These require immediate medical attention:

* High fever

* Stiff neck

* confusion

* Muscle weakness

* Vision loss

* Seizures

* Paralysis

The Laurentians Outbreak: Current Situation

The 11 confirmed cases in the Laurentians represent a notable increase compared to previous years. public health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and conducting mosquito surveillance to assess the extent of the outbreak and identify areas with high viral activity. The affected individuals range in age from 40 to 75, and most reported being bitten by mosquitoes while engaging in outdoor activities.

Prevention Strategies: Protecting Yourself from West Nile Virus

Preventing mosquito bites is the most effective way to avoid west Nile Virus infection. Here are some practical steps you can take:

* Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET,picaridin,IR3535,oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE),para-menthane-diol (PMD),or 2-undecanone. Follow label instructions carefully.

* Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks, especially during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn).

* Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly empty and scrub containers that hold water, such as flowerpots, birdbaths, gutters, and tires.

* Mosquito-Proof Your Home: Ensure windows and doors have screens, and repair any holes.

* Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours: Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Diagnosis and Treatment of West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus diagnosis typically involves blood tests to detect the presence of the virus or antibodies against it. There is no specific antiviral treatment for WNV.Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms:

* Mild Cases: rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms.

* Severe Cases: Hospitalization may be required for severe neurological illness. Supportive care includes intravenous fluids, respiratory support, and management of neurological complications.

Public Health Response & ongoing Monitoring

Local health authorities in the Laurentians are implementing several measures to control the mosquito population and prevent further spread of the virus:

* Larviciding: Applying insecticides to mosquito