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Peak season for West Nile Virus

Residents urged to take precautions
mosquito

Although it’s been a great summer bug-wise, the province’s medical health officer is once again reminding residents to protect against contracting West Nile Virus.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Health, the peak season for the mosquitoes, culex tarsalis, that carry the virus has now arrived.

Currently, the risk is highest in southern Saskatchewan. Most people who become infected with WNV experience no symptoms or have mild illness with symptoms such as fever, headaches and body aches, but the virus can cause more severe symptoms in some cases.

“A small number of people develop a more serious illness called West Nile Virus neuroinvasive disease,” the province’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said.

“If you develop serious symptoms like a persistent fever, confusion, neck stiffness or an unusually severe headache, seek medical attention immediately.”

Mosquitoes are most active on warm evenings and between dusk and dawn. Residents are encouraged to use mosquito repellent, cover up and reduce the time spent outside when mosquitoes are most likely to bite.

Reduce mosquito habitat by eliminating standing water.