June 22, 2007 (THUNDER BAY & DISTRICT) - Three crows submitted to provincial labs by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv).

“Less than one per cent of the mosquitoes in the district are the species that are able to carry the virus from birds to humans, so the risk of an infection is low. To date, we have not had a human case of West Nile virus in the District,” points out Tony Pacifico, Manager of the Environmental Health Program at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.  “However, we recommend that everyone take measures to protect themselves, especially people who are traveling to places where the risk may be higher.”

To avoid mosquito bites, the Health Unit recommends the following:
1. Use insect repellant with DEET or other approved ingredients.
2. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and a hat.
3. Wear light coloured clothing.
4. Ensure that door and window screens fit tightly.
5. Eliminate standing water around homes and vacation property.

Last year the Health Unit submitted a total of 32 birds to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s Dead Bird Collection Program, resulting in 12 birds testing positive.

If a dead blue jay, raven or crow, or if three or more dead birds of the same species are found, the public is urged to call the Thunder Bay District Health Unit’s CROW LINE at 625-8328 or toll-free 1-866-582-9003.

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For information on West Nile virus and surveillance by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit visit www.tbdhu.com/EH/WestNile/.
For provincial reports on West Nile virus see: http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/providers/program/pubhealth/westnile/wnv_06/wnv_surveillance.html

For more information,
Laura J. Craig   
Coordinator, Marketing and Communications
Phone: (807) 625-8800