2007 Archive

The mosquitoes are biting!

Tips to avoid West Nile virus

Capital Health recorded the first human case of West Nile virus in the region earlier this month and with the rash of new cases across the province, residents are being urged to take precautions when outdoors enjoying the last few weeks of summer.

“You can still enjoy all your summer activities but we’re asking residents to take precautions, especially around dawn and dusk and when traveling,” says Dr. Marcia Johnson, Deputy Medical Officer of Health. “Most cases of West Nile virus are reported from late July through to September.”

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause West Nile Non-Neurological syndrome or occasionally the more serious West Nile Neurological Syndrome. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.  The mosquito contracts the virus from biting an infected bird and can transmit the virus to humans.

Approximately 80 per cent of people who become infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they will start within two to 14 days and can vary from person to person. West Nile Non-Neurological Syndrome symptoms can include fever, severe headache, chills and body aches. In some cases, people may also develop a rash, or swollen lymph glands.

In more severe cases, known as West Nile Neurological Syndrome, symptoms may include severe headache, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, decreased level of consciousness, tremors, lack of coordination, muscle weakness or paralysis. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek medical attention. In rare cases, West Nile virus infection can be fatal.

Individuals can contract West Nile virus at any age but people over 50 years of age and individuals with weaker immune systems are at greater risk of developing more severe symptoms and health effects.

There is no specific treatment, medication, or cure for West Nile infection.  Serious cases may require hospital or nursing care and are treated with supportive therapies to ease symptoms and prevent secondary infections.

Dr. Johnson provides the following tips to help prevent individuals from contracting West Nile virus.

• Avoid the outdoors during peak mosquito times (dusk and dawn) when they are most active.
• Wear light-coloured clothing and long-sleeved pants/shirts when outdoors.
• Insect repellent with DEET is the most effective protection against mosquitoes. 30 per cent DEET can give 6.5 hours of protection while five per cent gives two hours. Avoid excessive use of repellents especially underneath clothing and be sure to wash it off once inside.  Parents should apply repellant to children to avoid overapplication.
• Change standing water in bird baths, tires and flower pots in your yard. Rain barrels should be covered with mesh.  Ensure that pools and pond water are constantly creating ripples or wave motion to keep mosquitoes at bay.
• Water-life such as carp that consumes mosquito and general insect larvae is a great way to protect garden fountains and ponds.
• Clear gutters to allow proper drainage.

Residents with any health concern can call Capital Health Link to speak to a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 408-LINK (5465) or, outside the local calling area, toll free 1-866-408-LINK.