Reduce risk of West Nile

May 23, 2007

The Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit is reminding the public to get into the habit of regularly emptying plastic containers, wading pools, old tires, wheelbarrows and clogged eavestroughs to help prevent the risk of West Nile virus.

These are the areas where mosquitoes like to breed. It is also important to change the water in bird baths every week and place screens on rain barrels to keep mosquitoes out.

The health unit is asking members of the public to report dead crows, ravens and blue jays in order to monitor for the virus.

“Dead birds are a key part of our West Nile virus surveillance program because they can be an early detector that the virus is active in our area,” according to program supervisor Brenda Armstrong.

For more information about West Nile virus or to report a dead bird visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org.

You can also contact the health unit by calling 1-877-721-7520 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.