Attention News Editor:

News Release                  For Immediate Release

                                                                                              June 13, 2006

2006 West Nile Virus Mosquito Trapping

Mosquitoes are an important part of the West Nile virus (WNV) transmission cycle. Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading the virus in the bird population and transferring the virus from birds to humans. Two birds from Grey-Bruce tested positive for West Nile virus in 2005 indicating WNV may be present in the local mosquito population. From June 5 until September 15, 2006, Public Health will be trapping mosquitoes to monitor for WNV.

Mosquitoes must be caught alive to test for WNV. Public Health uses a black-light and dry ice trap. Dry ice and a black light attract the mosquitoes and once lured to the unit, a small fan blows the mosquitoes into a netted section where they become trapped.

Traps are set on private property in locations where mosquitoes are found, but away from people, such as shaded areas near trees and shrubs. Human contact is minimized as the mosquitoes are more likely to fly to a trap than to people.

Monitoring of mosquito breeding grounds by Public Health indicates several active species of mosquitoes in Grey and Bruce including Culex pipiens – the main mosquito responsible for the spread of WNV.  It is important the public take precautions to prevent mosquito bites including reducing breeding sites around the home. Containers such as flower pots, bird baths and children’s toys are a favourite breeding spot for Culex mosquitoes and should be emptied of water every few days. Other precautions include using insect repellents and avoiding mosquito habitats during dusk and dawn when the insects are most active.

For more information please call 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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For more information:

Susan Shular

Program Manager: Communicable Diseases Program

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 231