Peel Region officials have reported that a dead crow found on Aug. 4 near the area of Wanless Drive and McLaughlin Road in Brampton tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).

In addition, a mosquito batch collected on July 29 in the area of Hwy. 407 and Hurontario Street in Brampton has tested positive for WNV.

To date, Peel has no confirmed human cases of WNV.
“Historically, the end of July is when we have found West Nile Virus in the Region. The hot weather and rain create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” said Dr. Eileen de Villa, Associate Medical Officer of Health for the Region of Peel. “We encourage all residents to report stagnant water and continue using personal protection measures against West Nile virus infection.”

In order to curb the impact of WNV, Peel Public Health recommends residents avoid areas with high mosquito populations and drain any areas of stagnant water on property.

For more information on WNV, please visit www.peel-bugbite.ca or call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.