West Nile on the rise

West Nile Virus might be a little early, but it’s safe to say it’s here.

In recent weeks, mosquitoes in Toronto, Milton, Oakville and parts of Niagara have tested positive for the virus. And according to public health officials, it’s likely to be in communities in between – even places like Hamilton, where no infected carriers have been detected yet.

The early appearance of the virus is being blamed on our intensely hot spring and summer. But the dry weather has produced a benefit – a lower number of mosquitoes in the area.

Meanwhile, testing continues weekly in Hamilton at 30 locations across the city. Environment officials have long abandoned the dead bird testing, opting instead for mosquito traps.

Video: Maria Hayes reports: