The Town of Markham takes a number of steps to provide information about West Nile Virus, its background and actions you can take to combat this virus.

Here are answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions. This will be updated as more information becomes available.

York Region's Associate Medical Officer of Health reminds residents that personal protection from mosquitoes is still the best method to avoid exposure to the virus.

Details on what should be done to protect people in this situation are available on the York Region website at York Region Health Services

For concerns and questions about the West Nile Virus, please call the York Region Health Connection Line at 1-800-361-5653, or contact the Town of Markham Contact Centre at 905-477-5530.

For calls regarding dead birds or Region of York activities including any concerns or questions related to the use of pesticides to control the West Nile Virus, please call the Health Connection Line at 1-800-361-5653.

NOTE: Effective 2009 Ontario will no longer be conducting a West Nile virus (WNV) dead bird surveillance program. The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care has confirmed the presence of the virus in Ontario. Dead bird surveillance is no longer needed as an early warning signal of WNV in York Region or to determine where the virus will most likely appear. York Region Public Health will continue to use mosquito surveillance in addition to other factors (temperature, precipitation, time of year etc.) to determine the human health risk of West Nile virus in York Region.

Residents in Markham are permitted to dispose of dead birds through the municipal garbage system. While disposing of dead birds, precaution must be taken by wearing disposable gloves, use a shovel to pick up the bird and dispose of it in a garbage bag. Wrap the bird up in the bag and tie the bag.

For any concerns or questions regarding the disposal of dead birds, please contact the Town of Markham Contact Centre at 905-477-5530.

Other online information:

• Health Canada West Nile Virus  Information
• Ontario Ministry of Health & Long-term Care - Public Health
• Other General York Region Health Services Information