Durham Region health department announced that it will launch its annual West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance and control program on May 12.
Last year, Durham region recorded 18 human cases of WNV and identified 13 mosquito batches that tested positive for the virus through its surveillance program (see below). WNV is a mosquito-borne illness transmitted to humans through infected mosquito bites and does not spread from person to person.
This year, the health department announced that it has introduced an online system for private property owners to request larvicide treatment for catch basins on their properties. The previous practice of mailing request forms has been discontinued. Residents can now submit requests through an online application at durham.ca/BYCBlarvicide. Additionally, complaints about stagnant water on public property can be reported at durham.ca/ReportStagnantWater. The program includes monitoring adult mosquito populations, testing for WNV, tracking larval mosquito activity, and applying larvicide in catch basins and surface water sites across the region.
Health officials emphasize the importance of reducing stagnant water sources to minimize mosquito breeding and lower the risk of WNV transmission. Residents are advised to take preventive measures, including:
- Applying for larvicide treatment for backyard catch basins.
- Adding chlorine to rain barrels or covering them with mosquito screening.
- Draining water from pools, birdbaths, and other containers.
- Clearing roof gutters to ensure proper drainage.
- Regularly maintaining swimming pools and hot tubs.
- Disposing of unused tires.
- Keeping drainage ditches clear of standing water.
To further reduce exposure to WNV, the health department recommends wearing long sleeves and full-length pants, especially between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Residents should also use insect repellents containing picaridin or DEET and ensure window and door screens are in good condition.
For additional information on WNV and Durham region’s surveillance efforts, residents can contact the Durham health connection line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729, or visit durham.ca/WestNile.
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