Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus

Saskatoon residents encoured to protect themselves from the threat of West Nile viru.

"Mosquito surveillance data reveals that the mosquitoes that can carry West Nile virus are present in the Saskatoon Health Region," says Dr. Johnmark Opondo, Deputy Medical Health Officer for the Saskatoon Health Region. "When enjoying the outdoors, it's important for people to remember to use an insect repellent that contains DEET."

The following protective measures are also recommended to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:

* Wear long pants and long sleeved shirts.

* Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes are most likely to bite.

* Use mosquito nets over play pens, strollers, and carriages for infants. Do not use DEET on children under 6 months old.

* Keep mosquitoes from entering your homes by using screened windows and doors. Keep screens in good repair.

* Keep grass cut short.

* Eliminate all standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs, such as in tires, flower pots, paddling pools, and bird baths.

Health Canada recommends the use of repellents containing concentrations of DEET not to exceed 30 per cent for adults or 10 per cent for children two to twelve years of age. No more than one application of 10 per cent DEET per day is recommended for infants aged six months to two years old.

Some non-DEET repellents have been shown to provide protection for a period of time similar to a product with a low concentration of DEET (4.75 per cent). Use of these products is recommended instead of DEET for people with: allergic skin reactions to products containing DEET; irritated, sunburned, bruised, or broken skin; or skin conditions such as skin cancer, dermatitis, acne, eczema or psoriasis.
source:www.emaxhealth.com