July 17, 2008 – Today, Health Unit officials confirmed that one bird sent to provincial labs has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv).

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit began submitting crows, ravens and blue jays for West Nile Virus 2008 surveillance on May 22^nd of this year.  On July 14^th the first bird tested positive for the virus.  Recently, 3 other health unit districts in Ontario have also had their first positive bird.   The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care has confirmed that these findings are late in comparison to previous years.

“This reconfirms that the virus is still present in our area”, points out Darlene Binette, Manager of Infectious Disease at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.  “We continue to recommend that everyone take measures to protect themselves, especially people who are traveling to places where the risk may be higher.”

The Health Unit encourages the public to take the following actions to protect themselves from mosquito bites;

1. Use insect repellents with DEET or other approved ingredients
2. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and a hat
3. Wear light-coloured clothing
4. Eliminate standing water around homes and vacation property
5. Ensure that door and window screens fit tightly

Last year, the Health Unit received 11 birds that tested positive for West Nile virus.  

The Health Unit is asking the public to report dead birds via the Crow Line at 625-8328 or toll-free 1-866-582-9003. Ongoing surveillance which includes mosquito trapping and species analysis along with suitable crow submissions will help to identify local hot spots.  This information will then be used to determine which actions to take that would reduce the risk of West Nile virus to human health.

More information on West Nile virus and surveillance can be found on the Health Unit’s website at: www.tbdhu.com/ID/WestNile/

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