The Government of Saskatchewan is reminding residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, as the risk of West Nile virus increases in Saskatchewan

The risk is highest between June and September when culex tarsalis mosquitoes are most active and present in higher numbers, there is also an increased risk in the southern portions of the province.

Deputy Medical Health Officer for Saskatchewan Denise Werker.

"When people are outside, from dusk till dawn, they really do need to take precautions against mosquitoes and that means wearing insect repellent, applying that according to instructions and making sure your house is not a habitat for mosquitoes."

Standing water in homes can be breeding grounds for culex tarsalis and be sure to maintain door and window screens so they fit tightly and are free of holes.

Covering up and wearing light coloured, loose fitting, long-sleeved tops and long pants when outdoors is also recommended.

Most people who become infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or have mild illness with symptoms such as fever, headaches, and body ache

A small number of people develop a more serious illness called West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease, this can cause inflammation of the brain and may result in death.

If you develop serious symptoms like persistent fever, confusion, neck stiffness or an unusually severe headache, seek medical attention immediately.

West Nile virus was first identified in Saskatchewan in 2002. 

Major outbreaks of West Nile virus infection in humans occurred in 2003 and 2007. 

Between 2003 and 2018, there were 161 cases of West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease; 18 resulted in death.

More information about West Nile virus, including symptoms, prevention measures and weekly surveillance reports is available at http://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/diseases-and-conditions/west-nile-virus.