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West Nile virus information
The Town of Newmarket continues to respond to West Nile virus in collaboration with other levels of government, health and environmental agencies and the community. West Nile virus (WNv) is a viral disease that can be spread to humans by mosquitoes which contract the disease after biting an infected bird. The risk of being bitten by a West Nile virus-infected mosquito is minimal, as is the risk of serious health effects from the virus in a normally healthy person. However, the West Nile virus can cause illness in humans, especially in the elderly and those that have weakened immune systems.
The best defense against this disease is controlling the local mosquito population. The Province of Ontario has a plan to control mosquito larvae through the use of larvicides. Mosquito larvae breed in standing water including any water that sits on the ground or in containers of any kind for more than five days. Residents can help reduce the number of mosquito larvae by eliminating stagnant standing water and stirring standing water at least every three days.
Examples of common standing water problem areas include the following:
- Swimming pools
- On top of pool covers
- Bird baths
- Old tires
- Garden fixtures
Standing water by-law
In conjunction with York Region, the Town of Newmarket is taking precautions against the West Nile virus. These include a by-law regarding standing water where mosquitoes breed. Under the by-law, property owners must ensure that any standing water found on their property is removed within four days. Residents can report possible infractions regarding standing water to the Town of Newmarket By-laws department at 905-895-5193. By-law 2003-57: Standing Water
Want to learn more?
Call York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653
