Peel Region is launching its annual campaign this week to stop the spread of West Nile virus by targeting mosquito populations in Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. Beginning Tuesday, regional crews will begin larviciding — applying pest control treatments to catch basins and storm drains — in a proactive effort to reduce the risk of human infections during the summer months.
West Nile virus, commonly spread by mosquitoes, can lead to symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Though human cases are relatively rare, Peel Region reported a confirmed infection last summer in Brampton near Church Street and Centre Street. With no vaccine currently available, prevention efforts remain the key strategy to reduce risk.
Larviciding helps kill mosquito larvae before they mature and become potential carriers of the virus. These treatments will be applied to stagnant water in storm drains across both municipal and regional roads, and residents can also request the application of larvicides on private properties if they have standing water.
According to a statement from Peel Region, all larvicide applications will be performed by licensed technicians from G.D.G. Canada, working under permits issued by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. The larvicides used are registered under the federal Pest Control Products Act.
Officials are also urging the public to be vigilant about eliminating standing water on their properties — a common breeding ground for mosquitoes. Areas of concern include rainwater barrels, old tires, children’s toys, wading pools, flowerpots, wheelbarrows, tarps, and pool covers. The summer mosquito season typically runs from mid-May to the end of August, with the larviciding program scheduled to continue through September.
Residents can report stagnant water or learn more about mosquito prevention by visiting www.peelregion.ca.