News Release                            For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                     August 31, 2007

Bird Positive for West Nile Virus

Lab tests results received today confirm a dead crow found in Grey Bruce carried the West Nile virus (WNv). This is the first WNv positive bird in the region this year. There were eight WNv positive birds in Grey Bruce in 2006.

The bird was found last week in Owen Sound. Surveillance for the virus has increased in the area. The Health Unit submitted 12 birds for testing so far this summer. Monitoring dead birds is a predictor for the presence of WNv. In addition to dead bird testing, adult mosquito trapping, larval surveillance and human case surveillance is on going. There have been no positive mosquitoes or human cases of WNv identified in Grey Bruce this year. Six human cases of WNv have been reported across Ontario this summer.

The presence of the birds indicates WNv activity in the area according to West Nile virus surveillance program manager Susan Shular. “This is the time of year when the risk of contracting West Nile virus is highest. I encourage residents and visitors to protect themselves against mosquito bites.”

 To reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:

·         Avoid areas with high mosquito populations

·         Take extra precautions from dusk to dawn when mosquito activity is high

·         Wear protective light-coloured clothing

·         Use repellents containing DEET (follow label instructions carefully)

·         Repair holes in screens, windows and doors to stop mosquitoes from getting into your home

·         Reduce the mosquito population around your property by eliminating standing water

Eighty per cent of people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience symptoms consisting of fever, headache, muscle pain, and/or rash. Less than l% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill.

Residents are urged to continue to report dead birds to the Grey Bruce Health Unit.

To report dead crows, blue jays or ravens call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456. For more information visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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For more information:

Susan Shular

Manager, West Nile Surveillance Program

Grey Bruce Health Unit

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