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Strathcona County has put together this information to answer some common questions and assist residents in contacting the agencies that provide information about West Nile.
If you would like more details, please contact the agencies listed below.
Useful contacts | West Nile and Strathcona County | Questions and answers | Backyard checklist
Useful contacts
- Information about horses
Horses are susceptible to the virus. There is a vaccine available for horses, and owners should contact their veterinarians for information.
Strathcona County's mosquito control program
- During a mosquito surveillance program, the Province has determined that Strathcona County is a low risk zone for West Nile virus. Therefore, the County will not be monitoring the mosquitos this summer.
Call Strathcona County, Transportation and Agriculture Services at 780-417-7100 if you have any concerns about a body of standing water on your property.
Frequently asked questions
- How is the virus transmitted?
West Nile Virus is transmitted from infected birds to people by mosquitoes. A mosquito that bites an infected bird can pass the virus along when they bite another bird or animal. Mosquito bites are the main way of getting the virus. Of the many different species of mosquitoes found in our area, fewer than 1 per cent may carry the virus. It is difficult to get this virus from a sick animal or bird. The risk of infection by West Nile Virus is very low, even in areas where the virus is present. Fewer than 1 per cent of people bitten by a mosquito with the virus will develop symptoms.
- What about mosquito control?
Mosquito control programs may be beneficial to reduce the number of nuisance mosquitoes in localized areas but have a limited effect over large areas. Strathcona County does not spray for mosquitoes because our area is so vast. There are too many areas with mosquito habitat where control is not feasible. Another drawback to spraying is that a large number of the mosquito's natural predators are destroyed in the process, which may ultimately result in higher numbers of mosquitoes.
- Do lakes and wetlands add to the mosquito population?
Natural wetlands and stormwater management facilities (the lakes and wetlands in Sherwood Park) do not produce the large amounts of mosquitoes that people might think. These water bodies contain large numbers of predators that eat mosquitoes-for example, dragonflies, birds, amphibians and fish. Mosquitoes do not live in open water where wind can produce waves. They need still, stagnant water.
- What control products can homeowners use?
If you do decide to use a control product, choose one that is specific to mosquitoes. It is not beneficial or desirable to kill all the insects in the area. Without natural predators, mosquito populations may increase. The larval stage is the best time to control mosquitoes. A larvicide specific to mosquito larva is available this spring at most hardware and garden stores. It is sold under various names, Larvicide, Aquabac or Bti. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label to get the best results, and use the product safely.
Backyard checklist for controlling mosquitoes
The best way to control mosquitoes is to make the area around your house less hospitable to them.
Reduce or eliminate standing water
- Do not allow outside water to stand more than four days.
- Drill holes in the bottom of containers to let water drain out.
- Clean birdbaths every four days.
- Ornamental ponds and pools do not need to be cleaned if you have a circulating pump that is on and functioning. If there is no water circulation, clean the pond every four days.
- Drain standing water in eavestroughs, tires, children's toys and flower pots. Any place where water can collect and stay for more than four days should be looked after.
- Change the water in animal watering dishes twice a week.
- Swimming pools and wading pools
- Remove the water that collects on pool covers.
- Circulating pumps should be working and in use.
- Clean and chlorinate pools, saunas and hot tubs.
- Empty and turn over wading pools not in use.
- Pick up and put away all pool toys.
Eaves and drains
- Clear leaves and twigs from eavestroughs, and repair troughs that trap water.
- Ensure roof drains are not clogged.
- Check flat roofs for standing water and have them repaired.
- Cover rain barrels with a screen or fine mesh.
Lawn and garden
- Mow the grass. A height of 6 to 8 cm is ideal.
- Landscape so that water will not sit in puddles.
- Repair any leaking pipes and faucets.
- Make sure that water in the garden can drain and not pool.
House
Repair or install screens on doors and windows.
- If you do not have screens, keep doors and windows closed from dusk to dawn.
- Install an automatic door closer.
- Check for leaky water pipes and condensation coming off air conditioners.
Further information: 780-417-7100
transportationandagriculture@strathcona.ab.ca
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