West Nile virus is a microorganism belonging to the Flavivirus genus and is carried by infected mosquitos. West Nile virus has been reported in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec.
West Nile virus is spread to humans by a bite of an infected mosquito.
Persons whose occupation may place them at risk for West Nile virus infection include:
Outdoor workers, people involved in collecting dead birds, veterinarians and Laboratory workers.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Here are some ways to reduce mosquito breeding sites around homes:
- Remove water collecting on pool covers, garbage cans, etc.
- Turn over wading pools after use or change the water regularly.
- Cover groundwater barrels.
- Change water in bird baths and pet or livestock water dishes regularly.
- Chlorinate your swimming pool according to manufacturer's directions.
- Chlorinate ornamental ponds or consider getting fish that will eat mosquito larvae.
- Remove unused items (like old tires) that can collect water.
Read more about on Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety https://www.ccohs.ca/
Your Prairie Region Health & Safety Committee
Kim Wyllie (Co-Chair, Component/DCL) Gus Mardli (Co-Chair, PRC)
Val Illingworth (PRC) Kristy Slattery (PRC)
Satinder Bains (PRC) Mike Fraser (CIU)
Faye Kingyens (UHEW) Randy Olynyk (AGR)
Chris Davis (CEIU) Jayne Fisher (UNDE)
Lorne Roslinski (UTE) Valda Behrens (USJE)