Halton Region has begun its annual larviciding program to reduce the risk of West Nile virus (WNV) in the community. The larviciding program is part of Halton’s West Nile virus public education and preventative program and is conducted on public property locations across the region.
“Larviciding is only one part of our comprehensive West Nile virus program, which also includes public education, monitoring and surveillance,” said Dr. Daniela Kempkens, Halton Region Acting Medical Officer of Health.“
Larvicide (a pesticide that kills mosquito larvae) helps reduce the mosquito population that could carry West Nile virus and is applied when other attempts at reducing mosquito breeding sites haven’t worked. Larvicide is applied in catch basins and in bodies of standing water located on public property.
Halton residents can help reduce breeding grounds for mosquitoes by regularly removing water from bird baths, plant pots, toys and tires. If residents see standing water on public property, they can report it to Halton Region by emailing accesshalton@halton.ca or calling 311.
Residents are encouraged to take the following steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes:
- Cover up. Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric.
- Avoid being outdoors from early evening to morning when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, as well as at any time in shady, wooded areas.
- Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects. Change the water in bird baths at least once per week.
- Use an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET or Icaridin.
- Ensure your window and door screens are tight and do not have holes, cuts or other openings.
A map showing the locations of standing water sites on public property where larvicide is applied is available at halton.ca/wnv. For more information about West Nile virus, please visit halton.ca/wnv or call 311.