By Jeromy Corrigan

West Nile

AHS reminding residents to protect themselves from West Nile when travelling this summer

Jul 23, 2019 | 10:42 AM

It’s that time of year again where mosquitos continue to become the norm in and around the City.

This also means the return of the potential threat of the West Nile virus.

However, as Dr. Albert De Villiers, Medical Health Officer for the North Zone shares there is some good news regarding the virus in the North zone.

“Luckily, we have not seen any cases acquired up here. Every now and then there are some cases in the North that actually come from the South or go through the U.S and then come back up here, but no. We have not had one acquired in the North zone.”

Despite no cases reported in the North Zone, De Villiers and Alberta Heath Services felt it was important to send out the reminder to residents as they know more and more residents will be hitting the road to the Southern portion of the province while the weather is warm.

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De Villiers stated to EverythingGP that one of the easiest ways to avoid being bitten by mosquitos this summer is to just wear lighter clothing.

“One thing people don’t often realize is that mosquitoes actually like darker colours. If you wear black or navy blue or any other dark colour they are going to go for you if you are walking out at dusk or dawn compared to lighter colours.”

If someone is bit by a mosquito which is carrying the West Nile virus, they can either develop West Nile non-neurological syndrome or West Nile neurological syndrome.

The symptoms for West Nile non-neurological syndrome, formerly known as West Nile fever, include chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, skin rash, and headaches.

Neurological West Nile is far more serious.

Symptoms can include tremors, confusion, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis, and even death.

532 cases of West Nile virus were confirmed in the Province from 2003 to 2018.