Larviciding to occur by Sept. 1

The past week has seen a significant increase in WNV activity throughout Peel and Ontario.

There were 40 new WNV-positive birds in Ontario this week, bringing the season's total to 132 positive birds. Peel now has positive birds in all three area municipalities. Peel's neighbour, the City of Toronto, has three confirmed WNVpositive birds to date.

Positive mosquito batches have increased significantly throughout Canada, with Manitoba alone reporting a total of 120 positive mosquito batches. Ontario has had 41 new positive mosquito batches in the past week, with one found in Brampton. There are a total of 202 confirmed WNVpositive mosquito batches in all of Canada.

There are no confirmed human WNV cases in Peel or Ontario. Manitoba is reporting seven human cases and Quebec now has a probable human case of the virus.

Mosquito Reduction

The fourth and final round of larviciding began Aug. 14 in south Mississauga and is scheduled for completion in Caledon by Sept. 1. Catch basins treated in this round of larviciding will be marked with a green paint dot. Catch basin larviciding updates are posted regularly on www.peelbugbite. ca.

Peel's treatment of surface water in ditches, culverts and woodlot pools will continue until the end of September.

Human risk for infection of WNV increases at this time of year. Most human infections result in no or mild symptoms. The most common symptoms reported from those who contract the virus include extreme tiredness, muscle aches, a fever, frontal headache and a skin rash. More serious symptoms can include neck stiffness, muscle weakness and confusion.

Extreme swelling or infection at the site of a mosquito bite does not mean a person is infected with WNV, but they may still require medical attention. Anyone with concerns about a bite or anyone feeling sick should seek medical attention.

The precautions against the virus remain the same. Residents are reminded to:

 Avoid areas with high mosquito populations and take extra precautions at dusk and dawn when mosquito activity is higher.

 Wear light-coloured clothing and cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, pants and a hat.

 Use a mosquito repellent and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

 Drain areas of standing or stagnant water on your property. Remove old tires, turn over pails, toys and wheelbarrows, and frequently change water in birdbaths. Also, keep your eavestroughs clear to avoid trapped water.

To report stagnant water, residents can fill in and submit a Suspected Mosquito Breeding Site Report form available on www.peel-bugbite.ca.

Find more information about WNV, protection measures and Peel region's Prevention Plan through:

 Peel Health at 905-799-7700. Caledon residents call toll-free at 905-584-2216.

 www.peel-bugbite.ca.  Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Web site at www.health.gov.on.ca.