Summer is here, and Hastings Prince Edward Public Health wants to get a head start fighting West Nile Virus.
The health unit asked the Town of Bancroft for support in their 2022 Preparedness and Prevention Plan. They say that should the need arise, they would like to use pesticides in order to cull off mosquito larvae. However, the Health Unit says it will need to apply to the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks for a permit to use them, and it’s only possible to get one with a letter of support from the municipalities in the area.
The health unit stresses that these pesticides will only be used if West Nile virus activity is active in the community. They will also inform municipalities if they plan to use these pesticides in the region.
Bancroft Town Council will discuss the request at their next meeting.