News Release
2003-22
April 16, 2003
Health Canada is coordinating a national approach to West Nile virus
OTTAWA - To prepare for the upcoming West Nile (WN) virus season, Health
Canada, in collaboration with its many partners, is focussing its efforts in six main areas
of activity:
- Canada-wide surveillance for West Nile virus
- Keeping Canada's blood system safe from West Nile virus
- Testing for West Nile virus
- Safe and effective pesticides and insect repellents
- Keeping Canadians informed about new findings on West Nile virus
- Working in collaboration with First Nations communities on reserves
"Health Canada will continue to work closely with its many partners to reduce the risk
of West Nile virus and keep Canadians informed," said the Honourable Anne McLellan, Minister
of Health. "While the risk of being bitten by a West Nile virus-infected mosquito is low,
there are steps each of us can take, such as reducing our exposure to mosquitoes with such
things as long-sleeved clothing, long pants and insect repellant."
Most people who contract WN virus show no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms. WN
virus can cause health complications for people of any age and any health status, particularly
for people over the age of 40, people with chronic disease such as diabetes, cancer or
heart disease and people with weakened immune systems.
Anyone who is exposed to mosquitoes in an area where WN virus has been detected in birds,
mosquitoes or other animals, is at some degree of risk for infection. Although the chances
of being bitten by infected mosquitoes are small, it is still important to avoid or at
least minimize exposure to mosquitoes in areas where WN virus activity is documented.
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The following fact sheets are available to the general public on the Health
Canada Web site :
Media Inquiries:
Emmanuel Chabot
Health Canada
(Public Health)
(613) 957-1803
Jirina Vlk
Health Canada
(Blood)
(613) 957-2988
Tara Madigan
Health Canada
(First Nations)
(613) 946-4250
Marc Richard
Pest Management Regulatory Agency
(613) 736-3682
Public Inquiries (Health Canada):
(613) 957-2991
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