WNV-positive mosquitoes found in Halton Residents are being warned to take extra precautions against mosquito bites after a batch of mosquitoes caught in Oakville last week tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). It was the first batch of positive mosquitoes found in Halton Region this year. The mosquitoes were collected from the area of Cornwall and Morrison Roads in the Town of Oakville. "Positive WNV mosquito test results are the key indicator of increased risk of West Nile virus infection," said Dr. Bob Nosal, Halton Region Medical Officer of Health. "Several other GTA regions have reported West Nile virus activity already. It is important that Halton residents keep taking precautions to prevent exposure to mosquito bites including covering up, avoiding peak mosquito activity times of dusk to dawn, and wearing insect repellent with DEET." Mosquitoes can transmit WNV to humans after becoming infected by feeding on birds carrying the virus. The following are steps that residents can take to protect themselves from mosquitoes: · Cover up. Wear light-coloured, longsleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric. · Avoid being outdoors in the early evening to morning. This is 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. Maps showing the locations of positive mosquito pools, as well as standing water sites that have had larvicide applied are available on the Health Department's website at www.halton.ca/wnv. To report standing water or for more information about West Nile virus, dial 311 or call Halton Region at 905-825-6000, toll free 1-866-4HALTON (1-866-442-5866), TTY 905-827-9833, or e-mail wnv@halton. ca. 5 Independent & Free Press, Thursday, August 26, 2010 Enjoy the Great Indoors... and Outdoors this summer! Get a FREE* Weekend Getaway or a Coleman High Efficiency Air Cleaner * with the purchase of a select Coleman or a12 month deferred payment** Heating & Air Conditioning System. "Spaces live. Let me help you live well in yours." Catherine Brazeau, Interior style consultant 905.877.0296 www.haughtonbrazeau.com Complete renovation management, colour harmonizing, furniture & accessories selection, lighting advice... and much more! Let's start creating your dream! Fireplace, Heating & Air Conditioning Sales & Service 118 Guelph St. Georgetown (at Maple) Free Estimates APPLEBY SYSTEMS 905-877-8990 OAC FULL PARTS & SERVICE 6 YEARS IN A ROW Favourite Furnace & Air Conditioner Hours: Monday - Friday 9-5; Saturday 11-4; Appointments available after hours upon request www.applebysystems.ca Limited time offer, call for details. Products not be exactly asinstallation shown. *Limited time offer, call for details. Free may Regal Broil King Barbeque or free of a Coleman HEAC3000 Hybrid Air Cleaner or $800 Off Coleman accessories with the purchase of CP9C Furnace and TCJF or AC5B or AC 8B Air Conditioner. Products may not be exactly as shown.