WEST NILE VIRUS UPDATE

There are 43 new probable and confirmed cases of clinical illness due to West Nile Virus in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of cases to 326. Regina Qu'Appelle Regional Health Authority has announced today two deaths associated with West Nile Virus.

"I would like to expend my sincere sympathies to the families, along with Dr. Maurice Hennink, Deputy Medical Health Officer for the Regina Qu'Appelle Region," Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer for Saskatchewan Dr. Eric Young said.

The peak time for acquiring the disease has passed. However, Saskatchewan residents are reminded that there are still mosquitoes around which carry West Nile Virus. People are reminded to take precautions if they see mosquitoes when outside.

"We will continue to see our number of cases rise over the next couple of weeks, as we will be receiving case reports from Regional Health Authorities as investigations are completed. Cases reported today relate to infections that occurred in late August," Young said.

For additional information on West Nile Virus, visit the Saskatchewan Health website at www.health.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083