Beginning June 1, the Department of Health will be collecting dead birds to test for West Nile Virus. This service has been available for the past eight years and, so far, no dead birds found on PEI have tested positive for West Nile virus.
“Although we have not detected the virus in Island birds, it is important for the annual testing to continue,” says Dr. Heather Morrison, Chief Health Officer. “This is the best way to ensure that we do not have an increased risk of West Nile Virus in the province.”
Dead crows, ravens and blue jays are the only birds that will be tested. Residents can report dead birds for collection by calling the provincial number at 1-866-368-4683 or the local number for Charlottetown residents at 368-4683. The department will be collecting the birds until October 31.
The birds will be tested at the Atlantic Veterinary College Lab in Charlottetown.
Dr. Morrison reminds residents not to handle dead birds with their bare hands. She also advises people to wear protective gloves and wash their hands immediately after handling any dead birds.