Health Information A-Z > West Nile Virus
The Health Unit is once again tracking West Nile virus (WNV) in Perth County. Again, we will not be collecting dead crows or blue jays and testing them for WNV.
If you find a dead bird you do not need to call the Health Unit. Instead, properly dispose of it by following the steps below:
- place the bird in a plastic bag using gloves or a garden tool
- make sure it is double bagged before placing in the garbage
- follow up with proper hand washing.
If you find a dead wild animal of any type and want to inquire about testing, please call the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre (CCWHC) at: 1-866-673-4781.
The Health Unit will use other activities to track the virus in Perth County and help determine the human health risk: mosquito trapping and testing, and mosquito larval surveillance.
It is also important that people remove standing water from around the home and take precautions against mosquitoes!
West Nile Virus Fast Facts:
- WNV is established in Ontario.
- WNV is transmitted by mosquitoes that become infected by feeding on an infected bird.
- 4 out of 5 people bitten by an infected mosquito do not show symptoms.
- Only about 1 in 150 people infected will experience serious symptoms.
- Symptoms usually develop between 2 and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Mosquito season is here so protect yourself - CLEAN UP AND COVER UP!
- Clean up standing water around the home once a week
- Apply insect repellent and cover up with light-coloured clothing when outdoors; a repellent with DEET offers the most effective protection
- Take extra protection measures between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Source for pictures: Public Health Agency of Canada's West Nile virus Web site, Public Health Agency of Canada, http://www.westnilevirus.gc.ca. © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Health (2003)
For more information about West Nile virus, click on the links below:
[
Previous Screen ]
If you have a concern about access to our services, please let us know. We want to help!
For more information, contact Health Line at 519-271-7600 ext 267.
Listowel area residents call 1-877-271-7348.
|
|
