The Department of Health will resume its collection of dead birds beginning June 1, 2007 for the purpose of West Nile Virus testing. No dead birds have ever been found to carry this virus on PEI.
“The annual testing process is an important effort to help ensure that we do not have an increased risk of West Nile Virus in the province,” says Dr. Lamont Sweet, Chief Health Officer. “Although we have not yet detected the virus in Island birds, it is essential to remain vigilant in our monitoring procedures.”
Dead crows, ravens and blue jays are the only birds that will be tested. Residents can report dead birds for collection by calling the following numbers. In Charlottetown, call 894-5208 during regular working hours or 628-5039 after hours and on weekends and holidays. In the rest of the province, call 1-866-368-4683.
The birds will be tested at the Atlantic Veterinary College Lab in Charlottetown.
Dr. Sweet reminds residents not to handle dead birds with their bare hands. “Gloves should be worn while touching any dead bird and hands should be washed immediately after handling,” he says.