HAMILTON
,
ON – August 17, 2006 – The City of Hamilton is awaiting final confirmation on preliminary tests showing that three dead crows, found in the city last week, had West Nile virus (WNV). The first preliminary WNV positive crow of the season was picked up on Aug. 10, in the Ancaster area. Two other crows, picked up in the Flamborough area and the Glanbrook area on Aug. 14 also have positive preliminary tests. WNV has already been found in mosquitoes across the city, indicating the virus remains active in the community. To date this year there are no reported human cases of West Nile virus.
“We’re at the time of year when the risk for human cases of West Nile Virus infection increases,” said Robert Hall, Director of Health Protection Division for the City of Hamilton. “So it’s important for residents to remember to take measures to protect against mosquito bites.” Most people infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms or a very mild illness with fever. A small proportion may develop a more serious illness, in some cases inflammation of the brain, the lining of the brain or the spinal cord. The incubation period, after being bitten by an infected mosquito, is two to 14 days.
The City of Hamilton continually assesses the risk for human illness and has a comprehensive surveillance and prevention program. As part of its prevention efforts, the City recently completed the third of four rounds of larviciding treatments in street catchbasins. The fourth round is scheduled for early September. Treatment is ongoing for selected surface waters on public land.
Public Health Services reminds residents to use personal protection measures, which include: avoiding areas with high mosquito populations; wearing light-coloured, tightly-woven, loose-fitting clothing, including long sleeves, pants and a hat, to cover exposed skin; using a mosquito repellent containing DEET (manufacturer's instructions should be followed carefully); making sure all windows and doors in your home have screens that are in good condition; and taking extra precaution from dusk to dawn when mosquito activity is particularly high. Residents should also reduce standing water around their homes and businesses.
For additional information on West Nile virus or questions about dead birds, standing water, mosquito control, or human health, please call the department’s Health Protection Branch at 905-546-3575 or visit on line at http://www.hamilton.ca/westnile
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Media Contact:
Connie DeBenedet
Acting West Nile Virus Program Manager 905-546-2424 Ext. 3576