York Region reports possible first human case of West Nile

York Region reported its first probable human case of West Nile virus, Wednesday.

Officials say person affected was found in Markham.

“We’re reporting a female in the city of Markham that is our first probable case West Nile virus,” director of health protection in York Region Joe Lamarca told 680News.

York Region officials said they’re seeing an increase in West Nile activity in 2012, and they’re reminding people to limit the risk by covering up and avoiding the outdoors during dusk and dawn, which is when the pesky insects are most active.

“Make sure that bird baths, etc., are dumped more frequently because we know that this time of year mosquitoes are laying eggs and producing larva for future mosquitoes,” said Lamarca.

Since 2008, there have been two human cases of the virus in the region.

Symptoms can include fever, muscle weakness and a stiff neck.

There are 15 probable human cases in Toronto. None of those cases have been confirmed.

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