They’re small. They’re annoying. And they’re back.
Public Health Agency of Canada reminds Canadians to protect themselves against mosquito bites to avoid West Nile virus.
Although the chances of contracting West Nile virus are generally low, there are still risks.
Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms or they have flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, mild rash and swollen lymph glands. In very rare cases, West Nile virus may cause serious symptoms and health effects, such as high fever, stiff neck, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, lack of coordination, confusion or loss of consciousness.
Take the following precautions to protect yourself from bites:
- use insect repellent containing DEET, Icaridin (also called Picaridin) or other approved ingredients on clothing as well as exposed skin. Always read and follow label directions
- wear light-coloured clothing, a long-sleeved shirt and long pants
- make sure screen doors and windows are in good repair to keep mosquitoes outside
- get rid of as much standing water as you can from around your home and property because mosquitoes breed in standing water
To learn more, please visit http://www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/diseases-conditions-maladies-affection...