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First human case this year of West Nile virus found in Saskatchewan

Health officials in Saskatchewan say one person has been hospitalized with West Nile neurological syndrome and six others are under investigation for West Nile virus infections.
Health officials in Saskatchewan say one person has been hospitalized with West Nile neurological syndrome and six others are under investigation for West Nile virus infections. Handout / CDC

REGINA – Health officials say the first human case this season of West Nile virus has been reported in Saskatchewan.

The infection occurred in an individual from the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region who experienced no symptoms.

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It was detected by Canadian Blood Services in screening before the person was to donate blood.

Officials are urging people to take precautions against mosquitoes in light of the recent hot, humid weather which has created ideal conditions for their development.

Most people infected with West Nile will experience no symptoms or only mild illness such as fever, headaches and body aches.

Two people in Winnipeg were confirmed to be carrying the virus earlier this week – also detected in routine screenings by Canadian Blood Services.

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