AHS encourages simple precautions to reduce risk of West Nile virus infection
Alberta Health Services is reminding Albertans to take precautions to protect themselves against West Nile virus infection.
“With exposure to mosquitoes, comes risk of West Nile virus,” says Dr. Ifeoma Achebe, lead medical officer of health – Central Zone. “Because some mosquitoes carry West Nile virus, it’s important to avoid being bitten at all.”
Whenever engaging in outdoor activities, or even just relaxing outside, all Albertans are encouraged to take the following simple steps to prevent bites and protect themselves from West Nile virus:
- Wear a long-sleeved, light-colored shirt, pants, and a hat.
- Consider staying indoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use a Health Canada approved insect repellant (products containing DEET or Icaridin).
- For infants younger than 6 months old, do not use an insect repellent containing DEET. Instead, use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a crib or stroller.
- For children 6 months to 2 years old, use insect repellent only when there’s a high risk of insect bites that can spread infections and diseases. Do not use more than once a day.
- For children over 2 years old, you can use insect repellent up to 3 times a day.
- For more information on insect repellants, visit Personal Insect repellents – Canada.ca