Prairie residents are being urged to take extra precautions against West Nile virus.
Phil Curry, co-ordinator of Saskatchewan’s West Nile virus program, said late July and early August is typically the highest risk period for the disease.
The number of culex tarsalis mosquitoes is high in late summer and people spend more time outside. Culex tarsalis are the type of mosquitoes that carry the virus.
“We will continue to monitor mosquito activity throughout the summer and notify the media and public about the risk and personal protective measures,” Curry said.
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No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported on the Prairies this summer, but conditions in many areas continue to be optimal.
A second generation of culex tarsalis has already emerged in southern Saskatchewan.
Cool night time temperatures and frequent rain can lengthen the mosquitoes’ incubation time.
Most of those who are infected will show no symptoms or limited symptoms.
Common symptoms include mild fever, headaches and aching muscles.
However, in some cases the virus can result in serious illness, neurological problems and encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, which can cause long-term health implications or death.
To reduce risk, people who work outdoors should take the following precautions:
• use insect repellent when working outdoors;
• wear loose-fitting, light-coloured protective clothing;
• reduce time spent outdoors, especially when mosquito numbers are high.
Residents can also help control mosquito populations by emptying containers that collect stagnant water and keeping grass and shrubs trimmed and clear of overgrowth. Adult mosquitoes like to rest in grassy shaded areas during the day.
Visit www.health.gov.sk.ca/westnile- virus for Saskatchewan information and www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/stats.html for Manitoba statistics.
