Alberta Health Services is encouraging residents to make sure they are taking the proper precautions to protect themselves from the West Nile Virus.

Mosquitoes carry the virus which means that bites from the pests have the potential to lead to contracting West Nile.

A few simple steps can help prevent being bitten.

AHS says wearing long, light coloured sleeves and pants, using an approved insect repellent with Deet or Icaridin, and avoiding being outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active can help prevent mosquito bites.

Humans can develop West Nile non-neurological syndrome (previously known as West Nile fever) after being bitten, or the more serious West Nile neurological syndrome.

Symptoms of the non-neurological syndrome can include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, skin rash, swollen glands, and headache. Symptoms of the neurological syndrome are said to be more severe and can include tremors, drowsiness, confusion, swallowing problems, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis, and even death.

According to the organization, from 2003 to 2018, 532 cases of West Nile virus were confirmed in Alberta, many of which were acquired here in the province and not travel-related.

Of these cases, AHS has reported that 458 were the non-neurological syndrome.

 

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