Halton Region has started its annual larviciding program to reduce the risk of West Nile virus (WNV) in the community. This is part of Halton’s ongoing commitment to enhance the health and well-being of residents through public education and prevention programs.
“Larviciding is just one part of our West Nile virus prevention program, which includes public education, monitoring and surveillance.” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region Medical Officer of Health. “By working together with the community, we will continue to reduce the risk of West Nile virus and keep our community safe and healthy.”
Larviciding is the process of applying pesticides to areas with standing water such as catch basins and storm water ponds, where mosquito larvae are commonly found. This preventative program runs from June to August in an attempt to reduce the adult mosquito population and helping to stop the mosquitoes that can carry West Nile virus.
Residents are also encouraged to take the following steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes:
- Cover up. Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric.
- Avoid being outdoors from early evening to morning when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, as well as at any time in shady, wooded areas.
- Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects such as plant pots, old toys and tires. Change the water in bird baths at least once per week.
- Use an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET or Icaridin.
- Make sure your window and door screens are tight and without holes, cuts or other openings.
A map showing the locations of standing water sites on public property where larvicide is applied is available at halton.ca. If residents see standing water on public property, they can report it to Halton Region by emailing accesshalton@halton.ca or calling 311.
For more information about West Nile virus, visit halton.ca or call 311.
The Regional Municipality of Halton serves more than 550,000 residents in the City of Burlington, the Town of Halton Hills, the Town of Milton, and the Town of Oakville. Halton Region is committed to meeting the needs of its residents through the delivery of cost-effective, quality programs and services, including water and wastewater; Regional roads and planning; paramedic services; waste management; public health; social assistance; children’s and seniors’ services; housing services; heritage programs; emergency management and economic development. For more information, call 311 or visit Halton Region’s website at halton.ca.
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