Consulting
Nuisance Mgt
WNV Program |
| The mosquito-borne virus, West
Nile Virus is expected to arrive in British Columbia this year. Mosquitoes
can transmit this disease after becoming infected by feeding on the
blood of birds, which can carry the virus. Only certain species of
mosquitoes feed on birds and mammals and are competent at transmitting
the virus. Other species of mosquitoes may appear in great numbers,
but pose negligible threat of transmitting the disease, either because
of their particular feeding habits, or because they are not effective
vectors. Development of an effective West Nile Virus action plan is an essential component in preparing for the arrival of the disease. The cornerstone of this preparation is the assembly of a database detailing when and where populations of ‘WNV risk’ mosquito species are present. This information would then be used to direct mosquito control activities, should they become necessary. The BC Centre for Disease Control is coordinating efforts for WNV preparedness in the province and will make recommendations for control measures upon arrival of the disease. It is expected that control of the mosquitoes in their larval stage will be the focus of any abatement efforts. |
|
| Morrow BioScience
Ltd. is working with several BC municipalities and regional
districts in developing West Nile Virus action plans. These typically
involve the following: |
|
 |
Larval surveillance and identification |
|
Adult mosquito trapping and identification |
|
Mosquito distribution mapping to gain information on potential control target areas |
|
Overall mapping including relevant environmental features, legal boundaries and ‘pesticide free zones’ |
|
Development of plans to respond to WNV through larval mosquito and, if necessary, adult mosquito control |
|
Development and implementation of a comprehensive public education campaign |
Mapping and mosquito species distribution information is incorporated into a Geographic Information System (GIS). This format permits easy reference, updating and addition of new data, such as treatment information, if and when necessary. Mapping is performed using a high accuracy GPS and advanced software. |
|
 Grouse contracts Morrow BioScience Ltd. to ensure visitors are not annoyed by mosquitoes. Grouse Mountain is one of the premier tourist attractions in Vancouver receives thousands of visitors during the spring and summer months. Morrow provides environmentally sensitive mosquito management services to help ensure that guests fully enjoy their outdoor experience. |