What to do about dead birds... Spread the word - no more dead birds! Since 2002, residents of Waterloo Region have been asked to report dead birds to Public Health so they could be tested for WNV. Public Health has used information on "positive" birds to plan activities to reduce the risk of human infection. Positive birds have been found in Waterloo Region every year since 2002. Because West Nile Virus (WNV) is here to stay, Public Health will not continue to monitor dead birds. Public Health will continue other activities to reduce the risk of WNV. Though you no longer need to report dead birds, it is still important to protect yourself and your family from WNV: Avoid mosquito bites - wear long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing and apply insect repellent according to manufacturers instructions Minimize mosquitoes - mosquitoes lay their eggs in still water, so make sure that water does not collect in containers or puddles in your yard What do I do if I find a dead bird? You do not need to call Public Health. Double bag the bird and place it in your garbage for pick-up or bury the carcass at least two feet deep in an area that will not be distrubed. Do not bury in vegetable gardens. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling a dead bird. Questions or concerns? Talk to a Public Health Inspector at 519-883-2008 ext. 5147.