West Nile Virus Prevention Tips During a 40% Spike in Cases

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, we’ve seen more than 770 cases of West Nile virus (including about 490 severe cases) this year, as of early September. These numbers are compared to a much lower 550 cases (350 of them severe) this time last year. And some areas of North America, including Quebec, are seeing numbers 4 x higher than normal right now.

This is an alarming spike in West Nile virus, particularly if you live in a wooded area or any other area that’s known for a high mosquito population.

Here’s what you should know to keep yourself and your family safe.

Understanding West Nile Virus and Mosquito Risks

The first thing you should know is what the West Nile virus is and how it spreads. It is a mosquito-borne disease, meaning that it passes from mosquitoes to human beings, sometimes with deadly consequences.

It became one of the more well-known mosquito-borne diseases after it made international headlines in 1999 when it was first reported in the US, most notably in New York. It spread out and its peak was in 2003 when over 10,000 cases were reported. 

The numbers have fluctuated over the last 25 years, with highs of over 5,000 in 2012, and lows in the 700s in 2009, 2011, and 2020.

Now, however, in the summer and fall of 2025, we’re seeing alarming West Nile virus headlines pop up in areas such as:

Across The US

• Massachusetts

• Texas

• Delaware

• Kansas 

• Louisiana

• Maine

• Iowa

• And many more

Across Canada

• Quebec (which saw a 4x increase in cases)

• British Columbia

• Peel Region

• Mississauga

• Simcoe County

• Windsor-Essex

• Waterloo region

• Ottawa

• Niagara Region

• And many more

Local health departments are instructing people to be aware of the risks and protect themselves as best they can.

Protect Your Family: Everyday Mosquito Bite Prevention Tips

This is a great time to cover the basics of mosquito bite prevention. The first and most obvious is to always try to go where they aren’t. Try to avoid heavily wooded areas or other areas with low wind. And try to avoid peak mosquito times of the day, which are most often following rain or in the hours approaching sunset/dusk.

Of course, this isn’t always an option for people who want to enjoy their backyards. In which case, besides wearing long sleeves, pants, and light-colored clothing, take steps to minimize mosquito hot spots on your property. This includes eliminating standing water (AKA mosquito breeding ground) and maintaining your lawn, plants, and landscaping so they do not become a habitat. Most importantly, you should consider having a trained professional strategically apply barrier applications monthly in mosquito-dwelling areas, such as trees, shrubs, and foliage.

And of course, that’s what we do!

Protect Your Home and Your Family!

We can help you greatly reduce the mosquito population in your yard, which will help reduce the risk of West Nile Virus exposure. With a mosquito control program from Mosquito Hero, you get targeted control and regular service from a trained professional, helping you reclaim your outdoor space.

“So easy! The man doing the application was respectful and easy to work with. He made the experience seamless. We have a big yard with lots of trees and plants. He got all of it.

Thanks, Mosquito Hero. Can’t wait to see how well it works. It will be nice to be able to be outside again.” - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Review, Steven.

If you want to truly protect your yard from ticks or mosquitoes, trust the professionals! You can start today by requesting a free quote right now!