What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus. In
nature it is normally passed between mosquitoes and
birds. The usual way for humans to get WNV is through
the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes can become
carriers after biting infected birds.
Most people infected with WNV will experience no symptoms
at all. About 20% of those infected will develop mild
flu-like symptoms lasting a week or less.
If you are concerned you may have symptoms of
West Nile Virus, call the 24-hour BC NurseLine. Translation
services are available in 130 languages.
| Call BC NurseLine
Toll-free in BC |
1 866 215-4700 |
| Call in Greater
Vancouver |
604 215-4700 |
| Deaf/Hearing-impaired
Toll-free in BC (TTY) |
1 866 889-4700 |
| When you call, you
will be asked for your Personal Health Number
on your BC CareCard. |
What is the province and public health officials
doing to prepare for West Nile virus?
British Columbia is taking a co-ordinated approach
to West Nile Virus, and a provincial strategy has been
developed. It is being led by the BC
Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).
BCCDC News Release and Backgrounder:
Apr.
15, 2004 - Multi-agency Group Unveils B.C.'s West Nile
Virus Strategy
Provincial mosquito control permit
As part of the West Nile virus strategy, the Minister
of Health has obtained a permit under the
Pesticide Control Act to control mosquitoes should
they pose a public health risk due to the virus. The
permit ensures health officials can respond quickly
to protect British Columbians. It provides a legal
mechanism to allow pesticide application if health
officials determine the virus poses a public health
threat.
B.C. Information Bulletins:
Regulation:
West
Nile Virus Control Regulation July 2004 (PDF
News Release)
What can individuals do to prevent West Nile virus?
Read about what individuals can do at home to prevent
West Nile Virus:
Learn More about West Nile Virus
Or, contact your local
health authority or public health unit.
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