This web page has been prepared for the faculty, staff and students of Wilfrid Laurier University. This page and the Region of Waterloo Fight the Bite website provide information on both the heath and workplace issues related to the West Nile Virus (WNV). Please refer to the Fight the Bite website for answers to any questions you may have on WNV.

Safety, Health, Environment & Risk Management (SHERM) is in frequent contact with the Region of Waterloo Public Health Unit and will post any updates on this page. 

HANDLING DEAD BIRDS (CROWS AND BLUE JAYS) AT LAURIER

Birds testing positive for WNV have been found in Waterloo Region every year since 2002.  Because WNV is here to stay in Waterloo Region, Public Health will not continue to monitor dead birds. Therefore dead crows and blue jays no longer need to be collected for delivery to the Public Health Unit.

• If a dead bird is found, only handle it with gloves
• Place the bird in a sealed double plastic bag; bags can be obtained from the grounds personnel
• Dispose of the bird in the regular garbage
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water
  

Please visit the Region of Waterloo Public Health website to view:

2010 Vector Borne Disease Program Plan

2009 Vector Borne Disease Program Summary

Additional Information is also available at the following websites:

• Province of Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care
• Health Canada