Virus Found in Invasive Mosquitoes in B.C.'s Sea-to-Sky Region

Two types of mosquitoes have the California serogroup virus, which can cause a serious brain infection.

Health officials in British Columbia found invasive mosquitoes and a virus that can cause brain swelling in the Sea-to-Sky region, after looking into cases of childhood brain infections.

Scientists looked for invasive mosquitoes between Squamish and Pemberton after three children got brain infections in August 2024.

A senior scientist says researchers found two mosquito species with the California serogroup virus, which can cause brain and spinal cord infections. The mosquitoes were found to have the virus. The virus is a concern for humans. More research is needed.

One of the mosquitoes with the virus is the northern house mosquito, which is originally from Africa, Asia, and Europe.

The virus levels were low, so the team could not confirm the exact type of California serogroup virus found. The BCCDC and other health groups are working together. They are trying to learn more about the virus.

A BCCDC scientist says the study can help with future infections.

A scientist says climate change may increase our exposure to mosquitoes.

Understanding the mosquito species and the viruses they carry will help with preparedness and prevention. This is important for California serogroup virus infections. The goal is to be prepared.

There were 15 known cases of the virus in B.C. between 2009 and 2024. There were no known cases in the Sea-to-Sky corridor in 2025. The risk of infection is being monitored.

The risk of serious illness from California serogroup virus is low in B.C. The situation is being watched. Precautions are being taken.

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