West Nile infected mosquitoes thrive in heat

REGINA – The province is warning people to take precautions against the West Nile virus this summer.

While hot weather is helping kill off nuisance mosquitoes, it also creates prime conditions for the species that carries West Nile.

Provincial West Nile coordinator, Phil Curry, said, “So far we have not seen West Nile buildup in the general population of Culex tarsalis, but it will as we move into July.”

The virus can cause neurological damage and even death in extreme cases. Since 2003, 17 people have died after contracting West Nile in Saskatchewan.

“We have actually had outbreaks of West Nile virus in humans in 2003 and 2007,” said Dr. Denise Werker, Deputy Chief Medical Officer.

To prevent mosquito bites, the province is encouraging people to wear light coloured clothing and repellent when venturing outside.