For most people, the risk of exposure to West Nile virus is low and the risk of serious health effects from the virus is even lower. However, it is important for New Brunswickers to be aware of the risks, and to protect ourselves against mosquito bites.

When West Nile virus is detected in the province, the department will inform the public through the media and other communication tools. If testing reveals West Nile virus is present in an area, measures should be taken to reduce the risk of exposure to mosquitoes. These include preventing mosquito bites and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

Prevent Mosquito Bites

West Nile virus is most commonly spread by the bites of infected mosquitoes. To help reduce the risk, take the following precautions.

• Make sure door and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes to prevent mosquitoes entering homes.
• Minimize time spent outdoors at dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear light-colored clothing, long-sleeved tops, long pants, and socks when outdoors, or consider special screen mesh clothing (screen jackets, suits and head nets) available at most hardware and department stores, as well as camping and outdoor supply shops.
• Use an insect repellent containing DEET or other Health Canada approved repellents.

West Nile Virus - Reduce the Risk
Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites

You can help reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection by preventing mosquito bites and eliminating mosquito breeding sites around your home. Mosquitoes need water to breed. Eggs and larvae can develop in small amounts of water that have been standing still for a couple of days.

Mosquitoes do not travel far. To reduce the risk of exposure to mosquitoes, take the following steps to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in your yard.

• Regularly empty standing water from objects in the yard like pool covers, flower pots, children's toys, pet bowls, etc.
• Clean rain gutters regularly so water does not collect.
• Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Change water in birdbaths twice weekly.
• Aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish that eat mosquito larvae.
• Remove debris that can hold rainwater, like old tires.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used and keep the pool water circulating.
• Use landscape to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.