(Brampton) - Mosquito season is almost here and West Nile Virus (WNV) is expected in Peel once again in 2004. Dead crows are an important sign of the presence of WNV and the Region of Peel is asking the public to report dead crow sightings beginning May 3. This information is important for identifying WNV in Peel and assessing the risk of WNV illness to human health.

If you find a dead crow, please call Health Line Peel at 905-799-7700, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Caledon residents can call toll-free at 905-584-2216. It is not necessary to report other types of dead birds that you may find.

The Region of Peel is also asking the public to report areas of stagnant water. Stagnant water is water that collects and stays for longer than seven days. It is an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes, especially as the weather gets warmer. Starting May 15 residents can call Health Line Peel to report stagnant water or visit Peel's WNV Web site www.peel-bugbite.ca to fill in and submit an online report form. 

"Public awareness and participation are essential for reducing the risk of WNV illness," says Dr. Howard Shapiro, Associate Medical Officer of Health for the Region of Peel. "Residents can do their part by reporting dead crows and stagnant water. They can also take an active part in reducing stagnant water in and around their backyards and properties. We also encourage people to take personal protection measure to decrease their chance of being bitten by mosquitoes."

Peel Health has worked closely with the City of Mississauga, City of Brampton, Town of Caledon, Credit Valley Conservation and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to develop a local West Nile Virus Prevention Plan. The plan is based on the latest recommendations from Health Canada and the US Centre for Disease Control.

Activities outlined in the plan include WNV public education and community outreach, monitoring for WNV in people, crows and mosquitoes and the use of larvicides to reduce mosquito breeding. If WNV activity in Peel increases during the season, then monitoring, education and control methods will be intensified. The plan is available on the WNV Web site at www.peel-bugbite.ca

For more information about West Nile Virus, mosquito control, personal protection from mosquito bites, measures to reduce stagnant water and updates on dead bird surveillance, visit the Region of Peel's West Nile Virus Web site at www.peel-bugbite.ca or contact Health Line Peel at 905-799-7700, or HealthLinePeel@region.peel.on.ca