News:

Residents asked to assist in monitoring
for West Nile virus

May 15, 2006

The City of Hamilton is once again asking residents to assist in monitoring for West Nile virus (WNV) in the community.

Public Health Services will begin tracking dead birds, in an effort to confirm the presence of the virus and to determine how the virus is affecting the bird population. All locations where dead birds are reported will be mapped.  Crows and blue jays, the most likely birds to die from WNV, will be picked up for testing only if they are in good condition for testing.

Residents who find these dead birds can call the West Nile virus phone line at 905 546-3575. The phone line is also available to anyone who has questions specific to WNV.  More information can also be found at www.hamilton.ca/westnile.