Hamilton confirms first West Nile virus case
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The City of Hamilton has confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus for this year. Officials say a man is in his 70’s is now recovering but was seriously ill with a fever. To date, nine mosquito batches have tested positive for West Nile virus. In Toronto, health officials say an 80-year old man has died of the virus. It’s the city’s first confirmed death from West Nile this season.
A spokeswoman says the man, whose name is not being released, was one of two confirmed human cases since June 3rd. She says the man died during the past two weeks. But his cause of death wasn’t immediately confirmed. Health Minister Deb Matthews had this comment: “Very tragic that someone has died for West Nile virus. We take West Nile very seriously. This year has actually been a less serious year as far as cases than usual. It’s a tragic reminder that we all must take appropriate steps.”
As of the end of August, Ontario has recorded six probable and 11 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus.
