As warm summer weather continues, the Saskatchewan Health Authority is reminding residents in the southeast that the peak season for West Nile virus is here. Dr. Stanley Enebeli, a medical health officer for the southeast, said residents should take precautions against the virus, which is carried by the Culex tarsalis species of mosquito.
“Usually, the peak season for West Nile is the warmer months, particularly the last few weeks in July and the first few weeks in August,” Enebeli said. “So, I think we can do a few things to reduce our risk of exposure to these mosquitoes that can transmit West Nile virus.”
Dr. Enebeli outlined several key prevention methods to reduce the risk of exposure.
“A few things we can do is using appropriate insect repellents when outdoors,” he said. “And of course, being mindful of the way we dress, wearing light-colored, loose-fitting long-sleeved tops and long pants when outdoors.”
He also recommends people limit their time outside between dusk and dawn, when the mosquitoes are most active, and ensure that screens on doors and windows are free of holes and fit tightly. Draining any standing water in yards is also critical, as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
While most people who become infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or only a mild illness with fever, headaches, and body aches, a small number can develop a much more serious condition. This is known as West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease, which causes inflammation of the brain and can be fatal.
Enebeli said there are specific, severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
“What to watch out for, particularly for the severe infections or cases, is if you develop symptoms like persistent fever, the patient all of a sudden becomes a little bit confused, not very coherent, then develops neck stiffness or the complaint of having an unusual, very severe type of headache,” he explained.
Anyone experiencing those symptoms should seek medical care immediately. Residents can also call Healthline at 811 for advice on symptoms. The virus remains a concern for health officials, Enebeli noted, pointing to a history of outbreaks in southern Saskatchewan between 2003 and 2007. The provincial government actively monitors the virus and publishes a West Nile surveillance report for those interested in tracking cases.