West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is an infection spread when mosquitoes bite an infected bird and then bite a human.

According to most health experts, roughly 80 per cent of individuals who do become infected will experience no symptoms, and 15 to 20 per cent may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and possibly a rash. Less than one in 150 infected individuals will experience the more severe form of the illness known as West Nile Neurological Syndrome, which can leave individuals with a range of long-term health consequences. The elderly, chronically ill and those with weakened immune systems are more at risk of becoming seriously ill.

"The risk of contracting West Nile is obviously going to be there this year," advises Dr. Gerry Predy, Capital Health's Medical Officer of Health and Vice President, Public Health. "I wouldn't say you have to be overly anxious about the risk but on the other hand if you're going outside, it's relatively simple to put on a little insect repellant or to cover yourself up."

Dr.  Predy suggests we reduce our risk by:

• Wearing light coloured clothing – long pants and sleeves
• Using non-scented grooming products
• Staying indoors during peak mosquito times like dusk and dawn
• Reapplying repellants regularly (as indicated)
• Draining or covering outside water sources like buckets, wading pools, or unused tires
• Repairing damaged screens
• Cleaning gutters to ensure proper drainage
• Stocking ponds and fountains with mosquito-larvae-eating fish
• Ensuring recirculation pumps in ponds and pools function properly

• West Nile Virus (Alberta Health and Wellness)
• West Nile Virus (Health Canada)
• West Nile Virus (Centers for Disease Control - Atlanta)
• Information for Health Professionals (Capital Health)
• Is Your Family Prepared (Public Safety Canada)

Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)