Milton records its first West Nile virus positive bird for 2008

The Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre in Guelph has confirmed that a dead crow, picked up by the Halton Region Health Department on September 8, has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). It was found in the area of Ontario Street north and Steeles Avenue. This is Milton’s first positive bird for 2008.

Last week two Burlington birds and two Oakville batches of mosquitoes tested positive for WNV. So far this year, thirteen birds—four in Burlington, eight in Oakville and one in Milton—have tested positive. There have been a total of four positive batches of mosquitoes, all in Oakville.

“Many mosquitoes become less active at temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, but at this time of year there are still plenty of nights with temperatures above 15,” said Dr. Monir Taha, Associate Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “Until we have had a few heavy frosts, I would encourage everyone to continue to prevent mosquitoes from biting.”

Mosquitoes can transmit WNV to humans after becoming infected by feeding on the blood of birds carrying the virus. The following are steps that residents can take to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes:

• Cover up. Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric.
• Avoid being outdoors in the early evening to morning. This is when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, as well as at any time in shady, wooded areas.
• Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects. Change the water in bird baths at least once per week.
• Use an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET.

Maps showing the locations of positive birds and mosquito pools, as well as standing water sites that have had larvicide applied are available on the Health Department’s website.

To report a dead bird or standing water, or for more information about West Nile virus, please call Halton Region at 905-825-6000, toll free 1-866-4HALTON (1-866-442-5866), TTY 905-827-9833 or email wnv@halton.ca.

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