WNV has not yet been detected in humans in British Columbia, but is expected to make its way into the province later this year. There have been a few confirmed human cases in other provinces (including Alberta and Saskatchewan), with the majority of cases occurring in Ontario.

Reducing the Risk of Infection
In Canada, the mosquito season typically lasts from May until hard frost (late September-October) so protective activities should begin now. While the risk of becoming seriously ill from WNV is very low, there are a number of measures you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones  from contracting the disease.

To protect you and family from mosquito bites:

• Reduce outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear baggy, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Wear light-coloured clothing since dark colours attract mosquitoes.
• Use mosquito repellents that contain DEET. The percentage of DEET in repellents should not exceed 30 percent for adults or 10 percent for children. DEET should not be used on children under six months of age. Ensure you read the instructions before application.
• Install screens on your doors and windows.
• Make sure your lawn is mowed to decrease the area where mosquitoes can rest during the hot part of the day.
• Avoid or protect yourself, in or near woodland, forests, salt marshes and coastal rock pools and any other places where mosquitoes may bite during the day.

Anything that can hold water is a potential development site for mosquitoes to develop from eggs into adults. To reduce common mosquito breeding sites around your home, remember to:

• Empty saucers under flower pots.
• Change water in bird baths and pet water/food dishes regularly.
• Empty wading pools when not in use; drain tarps, pool covers and trampolines that fill with rainwater.
• Unclog rain gutters
• Use fine mesh to cover rain barrels and containers that cannot be dumped.
• Remove used tires and other debris where rainwater may collect.

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