POSITIVE MOSQUITO POOL FOR WEST NILE VIRUS FOUND

The first mosquito pool to test positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) has been identified in Saskatchewan. It was found in the town of Coronach, which is in the Sun Country Health Region.

Fourteen mosquito pools were tested (a total of 525 mosquitoes) and one pool came back positive for WNV.

"This positive pool should be a reminder to residents that the next month is the most important time for West Nile Virus in Saskatchewan," Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Ross Findlater said. "People need to take precautions when outside to lower their risk of becoming infected with WNV."

As of August 3rd, a total of 8 birds have tested positive for the disease -- five in Regina, one in Saskatoon, one in Rosthern, and one in Tisdale.

Saskatchewan residents can take several precautions to lower their risk of infection. Most mosquitoes are very active at dawn and dusk. If you need to be outside when mosquitoes are active you should use protective clothing and insect repellent.

People are also reminded to eliminate potential breeding sites for mosquitoes around their yards by getting rid of any standing water.

Last year, 939 people were infected with WNV in Saskatchewan.

Information on West Nile Virus can be found at www.health.gov.sk.ca. The latest surveillance results will be updated every week on Thursday morning.

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For More Information, Contact:

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