West Nile virus positive bird reported in Greater Sudbury

Public Health Sudbury & Districts has received confirmation that an American Crow in the Greater Sudbury area has tested positive for West Nile virus. The last infected bird reported was in 2024.

“The last person confirmed to have been infected with West Nile virus infection in our area was in 2023. However, this infected bird reminds us that although the overall risk of a person becoming sick with West Nile virus is low, the virus is still present,” said Jonathan Groulx, a manager with Public Health Sudbury & Districts. “Therefore, taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites and becoming infected with West Nile virus is important,” added Groulx.

West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms, but some people may experience mild symptoms including fever, headache, body aches, mild rash, and swollen lymph glands. In very rare cases, the infection can affect the brain and cause severe illness.

Although the overall risk remains low, late summer is typically the time of greatest risk for contracting West Nile virus. Mosquitoes can carry higher levels of the virus at this time of year, and this is also when people might not be as careful about protecting themselves from mosquito bites. Simple measures can protect you and your family.

Reduce the risk around the home

• Install or repair screens. Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having well-fitting screens on all your windows and doors.
• Remove standing water from around your home where mosquitoes can breed.

Personal precautions

• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outside, especially from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use an approved insect repellent and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Anyone with concerns about a dead bird can contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1.866.673.4781 or report online using the tool at https://www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/report_and_submit.php.

For more information about West Nile virus, please contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200) or visit www.phsd.ca.