Alberta Health Services (AHS) is encouraging Airdronians to take precautions this summer when coming across wildlife and insects to prevent bites and infections.
"Insects can carry viruses and diseases in Alberta. West Nile virus is an infection spread by mosquitoes that can affect your brain and give you flu-like symptoms," explained AHS.
AHS also shared that ticks can carry Lyme disease, an infection that can cause problems with your skin, joints, nervous system and heart.
Here are some ways to prevent mosquito and tick bites according to AHS:
- Cover as much of your body as possible when outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Wear a light-coloured, long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat.
- Consider using a Health Canada-approved insect repellent (for example, products containing DEET or Icaridin) and follow the product label instructions.
- Always check for ticks when you come in from the outdoors.
- If you’ve been bitten by a tick, call Health Link at 811. You can also submit a photo of the tick to the Submit-a-Tick program to help monitor ticks in Alberta.
It is also important to check your pets for ticks if they are outside as well.
AHS also warned Airdronians about rabies and bat bites.
"Rabies is an infection caused by a virus that affects your nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and nerves. Bats have been known to carry rabies in Alberta. Household pets and indoor animals should be up-to-date on routine rabies immunizations."
Prevent bat bites:
- Never handle a live or dead bat with bare hands. Bats are likely to bite in self-defense.
- Children are curious and more likely to approach animals. They might not tell someone if they get a bite or scratch. Talk to children about not touching bats or wild animals.
- If you or your child are bitten or scratched by a bat:
- Wash the animal bite, scratch or open sore with soap and water.
- Call Health Link at 811 or speak to a healthcare provider.
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