Fight the bite

Fight the bite from mosquitoes at home and when traveling this summer.  West Nile Virus (WNV), a disease carried by birds and spread by mosquitoes, can infect people as well as other mammals.

Possible symptoms

Most people that become infected do not have any symptoms.

About 20 per cent will experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, rash, swollen glands and sensitivity to light.

Approximately one in 150 infected people experience a serious, debilitating illness due to nervous system complications.

Reduce your risk: Four D's

Drain
Keep your property free of standing and stagnant water that can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

• Get rid of water in flower pots, garbage can lids, old tires and other items that collect rain water
• Change water in bird baths twice a week
• Unclog gutters
• Empty wading pools when not in use

Dusk and dawn
Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Cover up and use insect repellent if you are outside.

Dress appropriately
Wear loose fitting long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, socks and a hat when outdoors. Light coloured clothing is best.

Defend
Use insect repellent on exposed skin or on top of clothing. Repellent containing DEET is most effective – up to 30% DEET for adults and 10% for children (not recommended for infants).   Remember to reapply.

Report dead crows

Crows are particularly susceptible and often die as a result of illness.  The crows are collected for testing as this one of the most reliable methods of early detection.

Disease-positive crows often precede the illness in humans by two to six weeks, allowing health officials to implement pest management plans to minimize human health risk.

If you spot a dead crow, please report it to the Fraser Health’s West Nile Virus toll-free line: 1-888-968-5463.

You can also call this line for concerns about a mosquito breeding habitat on private land in the Fraser Health region.