West Nile Virus Surveillance 2006

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Sakatoon Health Region
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For information about dead bird disposal

In 2006 there were 20 human cases of WNV in Saskatchewan, including 3 cases in SHR. Sun Country in the south east corner of the province (Estevan, Coronach, Weyburn areas) was the WNV hot spot with 9 cases in total and the highest number of positive Culex mosquito pools. For historical data by Regional Health Authority, see here. West Nile Virus was first recorded in humans in 2003 when the province recorded 947 cases.

• Use insect repellent containing DEET:  Do not use on infants less that 6 months.  Choose 10% DEET or less for children aged 6 months – 12 years.  Age 6 months – 2 years: apply once a day avoiding hands and face.  Age 2 – 12 years: apply no more than 3 times per day avoiding parts of the hands which may have contact with the eyes or mouth.  Age 12 years and older: use DEET concentration of up to 30%.

• Wear long pants and long sleeved shirts outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most likely to bite and limit outdoor activities at this time.

• Use mosquito nets for infants over playpens, strollers and carriages.

• Keep mosquitoes from entering homes by using screened windows and doors.

• Keep grass cut short.

• Eliminate all standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs (e.g., tires, flowerpots, paddling pools, bird baths, rain barrels, eaves troughs, etc.).

Judith Wright

CD Epidemiologist

Saskatoon Health Region

For information on City of Saskatoon mosquito monitoring click here.

National update: click here.