Residents of Sun Country Health Region are being advised to take precautions throughout the month of August, with the arrival of more hot weather and the species of mosquitoes that carry the West Nile virus.
Residents of Sun Country Health Region are being advised to take precautions throughout the month of August, with the arrival of more hot weather and the species of mosquitoes that carry the West Nile virus.The number of Culex tarsallis mosquitoes, the species identified as the main carrier of West Nile, has been increasing in the mosquito surveillance traps in Weyburn and Estevan.The traps in Weyburn have been catching just over 400 per night, while the Estevan traps have seen over 2,500 per night. The mosquito surveillance program began in June, using traps in three communities in the Sun Country region.As hot summer weather is continuing this week, Sun Country Medical Health Officer, Dr. Shauna Hudson, recommends residents take any necessary precautions as the risk increases.The precautions include the following five points: wear a good insect repellant with DEET; drain standing water; avoid going out at dusk or dawn; and dress appropriately with long-sleeve shirts and long pants.
