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Preventing West Nile Virus

By: Toronto4Kids

With the warmer weather come mosquitoes, and with them comes the danger of West Nile virus. Families can to fight back to protect themselves from these pesky bugs. Here are a few simple tips to help Prevent West Nile Virus.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home!

•	Get rid of all standing water on your property (it's the breeding grounds for mosquitoes).
•	Check the screens on the doors and windows around your home.
•	Trim grass regularly.

Avoid Mosquito Bites!

•	Use a repellent (always follow manufacturer's directions especially when using on children).
•	Wear shoes and light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
•	Stay indoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Help your Community!

•	Report Dead Birds to Local Authorities as this may be a sign that the West Nile virus is circulating between birds and the mosquitoes in your area.
•	Organize a neighbourhood clean up! Mosquito breeding sites can be anywhere. Clean vacant lots and parks, and to encourage others to keep their yards free of standing water. It's important to control breeding sites throughout the neighbourhood.

According to Health Canada you should be exercise caution when using products such as citronella candles, electric bug zappers and certain plants that claim to get rid of mosquitoes. These are not supported by scientifically-based test results.

Some additional resources:

Mosquito proofing your home - Healthy Ontario
West Nile Virus Info - Healthy Ontario
Help prevent West Nile Virus - Healthy Ontario
Ministry of Health Ontario - West Nile Virus Symptoms
Ministry of Health Ontario - West Nile Surveillance
City of Toronto West Nile Fact Sheets
Current Status of West Nile in Toronto
Larvicide Update

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Preventing West Nile Virus