The following text may have been generated by Optical Character Recognition, with varying degrees of accuracy. Reader beware!

Halton Region works to control West Nile virus Doing our part to protect the health of Halton residents is a responsibility that Halton Region takes very seriously. Since 2001, Halton's Health Department has been investing significant effort into the surveillance of West Nile virus (WNV), and taking actions to reduce human illness caused by the virus. This year we have not yet found evidence of WNV in the region, but based on our experience over the last five years, it is just a matter of time. I welcome your assistance in our surveillance efforts and ask that you encourage your friends and neighbours to also do their part to combat West Nile virus and reduce the risk of human infection. You can reduce the risk of West Nile virus to yourself and your family by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. Taking the following steps will help: · Cover up. Wear light-coloured, longsleeved shirts and pants with tightlywoven 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. Joyce Savoline · Use an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET. Last year in Halton Hills, residents reported 133 dead birds to Halton Region. One crow and two blue jays tested positive for the virus. This year, residents in Halton Hills have already reported 63 dead birds. Although there have been no confirmed positive results of dead birds for Halton Hills to date this year, I urge you to continue to call in any dead bird sightings. To report a dead bird or standing water, or for more information about West Nile virus, please call Halton Region at 905825-6000, toll free 1-866-4HALTON (1866-442-5866), TTY 905-827-9833, or visit our website at www.halton.ca/wnv. Joyce Savoline is chairman of Halton Region.