FIRST HUMAN CASE OF WEST NILE VIRUS REPORTED IN SASKATCHEWAN

The first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Saskatchewan has been confirmed in Sun Country Health Region. The case was mild and the person is recovering.

"The poor weather this summer resulted in low to moderate risk in the province of Saskatchewan this year," Provincial Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Moira McKinnon said. "However, low risk does not mean ‘no risk'. West Nile Virus is endemic to the province and we continue to encourage all residents to be vigilant."

The risk of contracting WNV in Saskatchewan increases through July, peaking in August. Saskatchewan's first human case for 2009 is believed to have contracted WNV in early August.

Although the risk period for contracting WNV has peaked for 2009, public health officials continue to remind all residents to protect themselves against WNV until the first hard frost.

• Wear insect repellent containing DEET;
• Wear protective clothing;
• Reduce your time spent outdoors at dawn and at dusk, and
• Reduce mosquito habitat where you live, play and work.

Saskatchewan residents are encouraged to be aware of the risk level in their region by checking the Ministry of Health's West Nile Virus risk map at www.health.gov.sk.ca/west-nile-virus.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: khill@health.gov.sk.ca