Peel residents learned last week that the first West Nile positive crow had been found in Brampton, and a mosquito batch from the Hwy. 407 and Hurontario Street of Brampton had also tested positive for the serious infection.

So the risk is out there and residents should be taking precautions.

To date, Peel has no confirmed human cases of West Nile, but the Region's Associate Medical Officer of Health warns this summer the risk of contracting the illness is even higher.

Historically, the end of July is when West Nile Virus has been found in the Region. The hot weather and rain create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, stressed Dr. Eileen de Villa. August and September are prime breeding and biting months for mosquitoes, so residents should continue using personal protection measures against West Nile Virus infection.

So far this season in Ontario, there have been 25 WNV-positive birds and four WNV-positive mosquito batches. In the regions neighbouring Peel, WNV-positive birds have been found in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph County, and Durham Region, and two WNV-positive mosquito batches have been found in Toronto.

While many people who contract West Nile suffer similar symptoms to a cold and recover completely, the very young and very old, or those with other medical conditions, can react very badly to West Nile. It can even lead to permanent disability, so it's not an illness to be taken lightly. Avoid areas with high mosquito populations; and wear light-coloured clothing, including long sleeves, pants and a hat, to cover exposed skin, even in your own backyard.

Use only those personal insect repellents that are registered for use in Canada and remember to apply repellent according to the manufacturer's directions. Drain any areas of stagnant water at your home or cottage.