First human case of West Nile Virus in southern Alberta confirmed

Following confirmation of Alberta’s first human case of West Nile virus (WNv) infection this season, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is again urging Albertans to take simple but important precautions to prevent mosquito bites and protect themselves from illness.

Dr. David Strong, AHS Acting South Zone Medical Officer of Health, confirms a southern Alberta woman under the age of 65 has developed WNv Non-Neurological Syndrome. This is Alberta’s first human case of West Nile virus infection reported since 2010.

“This individual has not travelled outside of Alberta this season, meaning she was bitten by an infected mosquito right here in our province,” says Dr. Strong. “This is an unfortunate reminder that some mosquitoes do carry West Nile virus, so it’s simply best to avoid being bitten at all.”

Whether gardening, golfing, fishing or just relaxing outdoors, Dr. Strong urges all Albertans to follow these simple tips to prevent bites and protect themselves from West Nile virus:

• Wear mosquito repellent with DEET.
• Wear long-sleeved, light-coloured shirts and pants.
• Wear a hat.

Consider staying indoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
“These steps can make it harder for mosquitoes to find you – and, remember: if they can’t find you, they can’t bite you,” says Dr. Strong.

After being bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus, humans can develop West Nile Non-Neurological Syndrome (formerly known as West Nile fever) and, occasionally, the more serious West Nile Neurological Syndrome.

Individuals who develop Non-Neurological Syndrome may experience fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, skin rash, swollen glands and headache. The small number of individuals who do develop Neurological Syndrome may experience tremors, drowsiness, confusion, swallowing problems, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis and even death.

As of Aug. 11, 34 human cases of WNv infection have been reported in Canada (not including Alberta’s first case), and 102 cases of West Nile virus infection were reported in Canada in 2011.

Dr. Strong cautions against complacency when it comes to the West Nile virus. “West Nile virus infection can cause severe illness with debilitating, lifelong effects, particularly in older adults,” he says.

 “I urge all Albertans to continue to fight the bite."

Due to patient confidentiality legislation, AHS will not be releasing further information about this West Nile virus case.

For more information and tips, Albertans can visit www.fightthebite.info or call Health Link Alberta, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, toll-free at 1-866-408-5465 (LINK).