West Nile's preoccupations arrive with the summer

By Kuhl, Nick July 11, 2018.

Lethbridge Herald

Alberta Health Services reminds Albertans to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against infection with West Nile virus.

of West Nile virus, "said Dr. Vivien Suttorp, Chief Medical Officer of the South Zone, in a press release on Tuesday. As some mosquitoes carry West Nile virus, it is important to avoid being bitten.

According to AHS, all Albertans must take simple steps to avoid bites and protect themselves from outside activities or even just relax outside. West Nile Virus:

– Wear a light-colored long-sleeved shirt, trousers and hat.

– Use an insect repellent with DEET

– Consider staying indoors at dawn and dusk the most active.

"These measures can complicate the task of mosquitoes, and remember: if mosquitoes can not find you, they can not bite you," says Suttorp.

After being bitten by a West Nile virus mosquito, humans can develop the West Nile Non-Neurological Syndrome (formerly known as West Nile Fever) or the more serious West Nile Neurological Syndrome.

Symptoms of non-neurological syndrome may be uncomfortable, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, rash, swollen glands, and headaches. For people who develop a neurological syndrome, the symptoms can be much more serious: tremor, drowsiness, confusion, swallowing problems, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis and even death.

From 2003 to 2017, 514 cases of West Nile virus were confirmed in Alberta, many of which were acquired here in the province. Albertans can learn more about West Nile Virus and how to reduce risk at http://www.fightthebite.info or by contacting Health Link at 811.

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