SIX PROBABLE HUMAN CASES OF WEST NILE VIRUS IN SASKATCHEWAN

Six new probable human cases of clinical illness due to West Nile Virus are now under investigation in Saskatchewan. This brings the total number of such human cases to seven.

The infections are spread throughout the southern half of the province in the regional health authorities of Five Hills (2); Sun Country (2); Heartland (1); and Regina Qu'Appelle (1). Two people are hospitalized (one each in Five Hills and Sun Country regional health authorities) with the remainder showing the milder symptoms of probable West Nile Fever.

Public health officials in each of the regions are investigating these cases.

"We have entered the period in which the mosquitoes which carry the disease are increasing," said the province's deputy chief medical health officer, Dr. Eric Young. "The cases are scattered broadly around the southern part of the province. It is important that everyone use repellents and wear proper clothing to avoid mosquito bites."

People are once again reminded to take personal protective measures if they are going to be outside. Mosquitoes are at their peak during the dawn and dusk.


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**Asymptomatic confirmed West Nile Virus cases detected by blood screening will not be announced via news release, but will be posted on the Saskatchewan Health website at www.health.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)537-3593	Dr. David Butler-Jones Medical Health Officer Sun Country Regional Health Authority Phone: (306)842-8659
Dr. Maurice Hennink Medical Health Officer Regina Qu'Appelle Regional Health Authority Phone: (306)766-7770	Dr. Saqib Shahab Medical Health Officer Heartland Regional Health Authority Phone: (306)786-0606
Dr. Mark Vooght Medical Health Officer Five Hills Regional Health Authority Phone: (306)691-6423