Researchers with the University of Calgary have reported the city's first West Nile virus-positive mosquito sample of the season, collected at the end of June. This marks the earliest detection of the virus in the Calgary area in recent years, according to the university's team.
The early detection comes during a period of wet and warm weather in Calgary, which experts say creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Heavy rainfall in the region has contributed to standing water, where mosquitoes lay eggs.
While the presence of the virus in mosquitoes does not guarantee human cases, health officials urge residents to take precautions, such as using insect repellent and eliminating standing water around homes. No human cases have been reported as of late July 2026.
