The West Nile virus infection is carried by mosquitoes. (Photo 129501234 © Konstantin Nechaev | Dreamstime.com)

By Justin Goulet

Health officials offering tips to avoid West Nile virus

Sep 22, 2023 | 4:21 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued an advisory regarding West Nile virus.

AHS stated that this year, there has been nine cases of West Nile virus confirmed in Alberta. Two of those have been in the Edmonton area and seven in southern Alberta.

Officials said five were acquired in southeastern Alberta within the last month, with three people diagnosed with West Nile neurological syndrome.

The West Nile virus infection is carried by mosquitoes.

AHS said after being bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus, people can develop West Nile non-neurological syndrome or the more serious West Nile neurological syndrome.

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Symptoms of non-neurological syndrome can include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, skin rash, swollen glands and headache. Individuals who develop neurological syndrome can see more serious symptoms, including tremors, drowsiness, confusion, problems with swallowing, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis and in some cases, death.

AHS said whenever engaging in outdoor activities, all Albertans should take the following steps to prevent mosquito bites and to 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 more information on insect repellants, visit Personal Insect repellents – Canada.ca.

More information on West Nile virus is available by calling Health Link at 811, or online at the Government of Alberta website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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