Reduce the Risk of West Nile Virus

Nova Scotians can reduce the risk of mosquito bites and potential infection from West Nile virus through simple measures like wearing light-coloured clothing and applying insect repellant that contains DEET.

"While there has never been a case of West Nile virus acquired in Nova Scotia, precautions are always wise, especially for Nova Scotians travelling to areas where West Nile has been found," said Teri Cole, a communicable disease prevention and control co-ordinator with the Department of Health Promotion and Protection.

West Nile virus infection is caused by a bite from a mosquito that carries the virus. While most infected people will have no symptoms, and the risk of becoming sick from the virus is low, it can cause serious illness in some cases.

The Department of Health Promotion and Protection is partnering with the Department of Natural Resources, the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre in Charlottetown, P.E.I., Canadian Blood Services and others in a public information and surveillance program.

"We want to remind health-care professionals to watch for symptoms of West Nile virus, acquired either locally or by Nova Scotians traveling outside the province," said Ms. Cole.

The general public can reduce their risk by removing standing water from pool covers, lawn furniture and recycling bins to make their yards less inviting to mosquitoes.

As part of this year's program, the Department of Natural Resources will again collect dead crows, ravens, blue jays and gray jays. The birds are tested for West Nile virus at the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre to help determine what the risk is for infection with West Nile virus.

"We ask people to report sightings of dead birds to their local Department of Natural Resources office," said Julie Towers, director of wildlife, Department of Natural Resources. "Our staff will then determine whether the dead birds are suitable for West Nile virus testing and can help ensure that other dead birds are safely disposed of."

In 2007, 62 dead birds were tested for West Nile virus. All tested negative.

Information on West Nile virus is available on the Department of Health Promotion and Protection website at www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/ocmoh/wnile.htm and at local public health offices.

Updates on West Nile virus activity in Nova Scotia will be available on the website as required throughout the virus season.