NLIS 1
May 13, 2004
(Natural Resources)

 

Province announces West Nile virus surveillance plans for 2004

Provincial veterinarian Dr. Hugh Whitney of the Department of Natural Resources said today the province will participate again this year in the national West Nile virus surveillance plan to monitor the spread of the disease across Canada.

West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes and has been the cause of human and animal health concerns in regions where it has been diagnosed. Since the first reports of its arrival in North America in New York State in 1999, it has spread across the United States and southern Canada. The only Canadian provinces that have not yet reported the disease are Newfoundland and Labrador, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island.

"While we have not detected the presence of West Nile in this province to date, it is important that we participate in the national surveillance program and continue to be vigilant on the spread of this disease," said Dr. Whitney.

Surveillance in this province will start May 15 and will involve the collection and testing of dead birds from the crow family (crows, ravens, grey jays and blue jays). Additional research work will be done on identifying mosquito species in this province and in testing horse populations.

Dr. Whitney encourages anyone finding a dead crow, raven, grey jay or blue jay to contact their local conservation office of the Department of Natural Resources during regular office hours.

Questions on this program can be addressed to Dr. Hugh Whitney at (709) 729-6879. Further information can also be found on the web at www.gov.nl.ca/agric under Animal Diseases. 

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications (709) 729-5282

2004 05 13                                       10:10 a.m.


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