CANADA, May 30 – Published May 30, 2022
It has been 20 years since the West Nile virus was first discovered in Saskatchewan, and although the risk has decreased over the past few years, all residents have been asked to continue using best practices to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
“The fact of life is that summer on the prairies includes mosquitoes, but most of those who find us in our campsites, in our backyards and in our parks are just an inconvenience,” said Health Minister Paul Merriman. “Simple prevention can save you more than just itchy ankles. Keep the West Nile virus in mind when you go outdoors.”
“The West Nile virus is now considered endemic in Saskatchewan,” said Dr. Julie Krizanowski, Saskatchewan’s deputy chief health officer. “While the number of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes found in Saskatchewan has declined in recent years, taking precautions against mosquito bites is always a good idea.
The West Nile virus was confirmed in a dead magpie in Regina in the summer of 2002, with the first human case confirmed in the province the following year. Since 2007, the number of West Nile cases in Saskatchewan has dropped significantly. In 2021, there was only one case of neuroinvasive disease in humans, and no one has died from West Nile virus in Saskatchewan since 2018.
This summer, the Ministry of Health will move to a more targeted approach to mosquito monitoring. Provincial mosquito surveillance will continue in three communities (Saskatoon, Regina and Estevan) and will be used in combination with environmental conditions to bring the threat of the West Nile virus in the province closer.
Weekly reports on the West Nile virus will continue to be made public every week, starting in June on the Saskatchewan government’s website
You can reduce your exposure to mosquito bites by:
- Use an appropriate insect repellent when outdoors;
- Wear a light, wide top with long sleeves and long pants when outdoors;
- Reduce time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when Culex tarsalis mosquitoes are most active;
- Maintaining door and window screens so that they fit snugly and have no holes; and
- Reduce mosquito habitat (standing water) around your home and yard.
Most people who become infected with the West Nile virus do not experience any or mild symptoms. Few people can develop a more serious condition known as West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease. If you have been bitten by a mosquito and have a fever, confusion, stiff neck or unusually severe headache, seek medical attention.
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For more information contact:
HealthReginaPhone: 306-787-4083Email: media@health.gov.sk.ca
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