West Nile virus (WNv) is a vector-borne disease that cycles between mosquitoes and birds and can infect people and some animals through mosquito bites. Although the risk is low, and most people will have no symptoms, in rare cases severe complications can occur.

The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) and its regional health partners developed a comprehensive provincial strategy to deal with WNv back in 2004.

The Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) has been an active participant in this process, as it coordinates mosquito control for its member municipalities, electoral areas and many First Nations in the Upper Fraser Valley and has identified and mapped WNv vector mosquito breeding habitat across our region. Under direction from the Fraser Health Authority (FHA), the FVRD will provide surveillance and control treatments to catch basins and surface water in an effort to reduce the risk of WNv throughout our region.

For tips on how to protect yourself and reduce mosquito breeding habitat around your own home visit Be Mosquito Smart!

For further information about West Nile Virus, including health, prevention, and the proximity of the virus to your community, please visit the BC Centre for Disease Control or the Fraser Health Authority websites.

If you have concerns about your health, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.

The Fraser Health Authority encourages residents to report any dead crows, ravens, jays or magpies they may find. Please call 1-888-WNV-LINE or 1-888-968-5463 to report your findings.

For various WNv risk-reduction and information brochures visit the FVRD's WNv Risk Reduction Materials Page.