GOVERNMENT PREPARED WITH WEST NILE VIRUS STRATEGY FOR 2004

Saskatchewan Health is implementing its West Nile Virus preparedness strategy for 2004 in response to the upcoming mosquito season. The strategy - which has been developed in collaboration with local municipalities, regional health authorities and other agencies - includes surveillance, mosquito control, and public awareness.

West Nile Virus had a big effect in the province last year, with 935 human cases, 133 horse cases, and 157 birds testing positive for the disease. Among the human cases were 62 people with the more serious form of the disease, West Nile Neurological Syndrome. West Nile was also a contributing factor in six deaths.

"Our goal this summer is to decrease the human risk of West Nile Virus disease through mosquito control measures and by making sure Saskatchewan residents are aware of what they can do personally to protect themselves," Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Ross Findlater said.

An entomologist will again serve as the provincial West Nile Virus co-ordinator, and will oversee surveillance of West Nile infection in birds and mosquitoes and co-ordinate and provide technical assistance for mosquito control activities across Saskatchewan.

The overall funding for the 2004 West Nile Virus strategy is $1.45 million, the same amount as last year. The distribution of the funding, however, has been better targeted to address lessons learned in 2003. This includes:

Surveillance: the province is providing $336,000 for surveillance efforts this year, up from last year's $250,000. The budget provides for the provincial West Nile Virus co-ordinator, and three West Nile Virus regional co-ordinators in Regina, Saskatoon and Swift Current to help with mosquito control programs and surveillance.

In addition, surveillance and testing of dead corvid birds (crows, ravens, magpies, blue and gray jays) and mosquitoes started on May 1st, two weeks earlier than last year. Bird surveillance will also end earlier, once risk areas have been clearly identified through a number of positive birds.

Mosquito Control: the formula for mosquito control funding for municipalities has been revised to increase the provincial share of the cost. Communities will be eligible for grants equivalent to two-thirds of the cost of approved mosquito control programs. In 2003, the province matched community expenditures on a 50/50 basis.

The funding formula also provides for increased funding for areas at higher risk for West Nile Virus, with a higher maximum per capita funding for these areas.

Public Awareness: the province will be spending $60,000 to continue building public awareness of West Nile Virus and the protection and prevention measures Saskatchewan people can take, including wearing insect repellent and reducing mosquito breeding grounds around the house and yard. The strategy includes a brochure to be delivered to every Saskatchewan household, and radio advertising during the summer months.

"We expect to see West Nile Virus activity in Saskatchewan again this summer, but it is difficult to predict the level of that activity since so much is dependent on a number of factors, such as weather patterns," Findlater said. "We are prepared with a strategy that builds on the good work done last year. We also ask Saskatchewan people to continue reducing their own risk by being vigilant with protective measures."

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For More Information, Contact:

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