West Nile Virus (WNV) disease affects wild birds mainly crows and blue jays and can be transmitted to humans through the bite of a mosquito. To monitor for the presence of West Nile Virus the Halton Region Health Department is implementing a dead bird surveillance program commencing May 15. The public is asked to report any sightings of dead crows or blue jays to the Health Department at (905) 825-6060. Staff from the Health Department will assess the report and if necessary pick up the dead bird and submit it to a laboratory for analysis. Most people who get infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those most at risk include persons over 50 the very young and those persons with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of the disease include mild fever headache stiff neck muscle weakness skin rash and swollen lymph glands. In rare cases the illness may be more serious causing encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). There is no specific treatment and no vaccine against West Nile Virus. Last year in New York State the virus affected 21 persons causing 2 deaths. While the risk of transmission of West Nile Virus to humans is very low the public is advised to take precautions to protect themselves against mosquitoes. Wear long-sleeved shirts long pants socks and shoes when outdoors in the evening or early morning. If you choose to use an insect repellent use a repellent that contains DEET (not recommended for use for infants under 6 months). In addition to taking personal protective measures you can also take steps to reduce mosquito breeding areas. Remove or change all standing water around your home by turning over or removing containers that hold water and change the water in birdbaths every few days. In 2000 West Nile Virus was identified in birds as close as 3 km to the Canadian border at Niagara Buffalo. No cases of West Nile Virus in birds or humans were identified in Ontario. However experts predict that it will occur in the province in 2001.