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West Nile Virus Surveillance Program
| With the arrival of colder temperatures, our 2006 West Nile Virus sureveillance program has now ended. As of Friday 29 September 2006 we will no longer be picking up dead birds. If you would like to report a dead bird sighting, please call 1-866-673-4781. |
The City of Ottawa is working to reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection. Mosquito traps have been placed around the City to determine mosquito species and densities. There will be ongoing testing of all mosquitoes - 25 traps per week, as well as extra monitoring in areas of increased concern.
Larviciding will begin in roadside storm water sewers once mosquitoes of concern are detected there. Efforts will continue throughout the season to assess the need for larviciding in other locations. As part of the West Nile virus surveillance program, the City is assessing areas for standing water.
Another important part of the surveillance program rests with the public. If you find a bird of concern, phone the City of Ottawa at 613-580-6744 ext. 26138. Please leave your name and number. Someone will call you back about the specific details. In most cases, pick up will be by the following day. Dead adult Common Crows, Blue Jays and Ravens can be an indicator that the virus has reached the area because these birds are the most susceptible to the virus.
The City of Ottawa's West Nile virus surveillance program is a seasonal program starting near the end of May, running until the first frost in the fall.
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