

Codi Wilson, CP24.com





Toronto Public Health says for the first time this year, a mosquito pool has tested positive for the West Nile Virus in the City of Toronto.

The mosquitoes carrying the virus were found in North York, public health officials confirm.

Although the risk of contracting West Nile Virus is low, officials urge people to take precaution throughout the summer.

"The positive test result is a good reminder for the public to protect themselves from mosquito bites and to remove standing water from property where mosquitoes can breed," Healthy Environments Manager for Toronto Public Health Elaine Pacheco said in a press release.

Toronto Public Health has 43 mosquito traps throughout the city and submits mosquitoes for lab testing weekly.

In order to reduce the risk, the agency is encouraging people to use mosquito repellent, wear light-coloured clothing with long sleeves or long pants and avoid areas with large numbers of mosquitoes.

The West Nile Virus was first discovered in Toronto in 2001. Last year, 18 mosquito pools tested positive for the virus across the city and 12 human cases were reported.