UXBRIDGE -- A dead crow found in Uxbridge has tested positive for West Nile virus.
Since beginning its West Nile surveillance activities in May, the Region has sent 27 dead birds for testing. This is the first positive test in Durham Region this season.
"It was reported by a resident as are many of our dead birds and it was picked up by one of our employees," said Laura Freeland, manager of environmental health for Durham's health department.
The dead bird was picked up on July 24 and sent for testing to the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Centre in Guelph on July 28.
"So that means it possibly could be in the mosquito populations as the mosquitoes transmit the virus to humans," said Ms. Freeland. "We remind people to take personal protective measures against mosquito bites."
There's been no positive tests among mosquitoes trapped by the Region. The health department will conduct further tests in the area where the bird was found.
Ms. Freeland, who oversees the Durham's West Nile virus program, said the Region won't give out the bird's exact location since the effect of a positive test is region-wide.
"Once we find one, it means West Nile virus is present in the bird population of Durham Region."
Durham's first positive bird in 2007 was reported on Aug. 17. The health department submits dead crows, blue jays and raptorial birds such as eagles, hawks and owls. Residents are encouraged to continue to report dead-bird sightings online at www.region.durham.on.ca or by calling the environmental help line at 905-723-3818 or 1-888-777-9613, ext. 2188.
This year, birds in the Niagara Region, Lambton County which includes Sarnia, North Bay-Parry Sound and Haliburton-Kawartha areas have tested positive for the virus. This is the first bird in the GTA; however mosquitoes in Toronto have tested positive for the disease.
The Region will continue to test birds and mosquitoes into the fall. As well, Durham will continue to target mosquito breeding grounds for the 10 of 59 mosquito species in Ontario known to carry the virus by using larvicide in catch basins and storm ponds. Residents are also urged to do their part by protecting themselves against mosquito bites and eliminating standing water.
Last year, there was one human case of West Nile in Durham, however it was identified as travel-related and not contracted in the region.
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