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 s parents we do everything we can
to protect our children and to safeguard their health. We can't do much about
cuts, scrapes, or bruises but, by following a few simple steps, you can help
to protect your children from West Nile virus.
West Nile virus is transmitted mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms or they have flu-like symptoms.
Sometimes though, the virus can cause severe illness. Older people and those
with ongoing medical conditions that weaken their immune systems are most at
risk for serious health effects but anyone, of any age or health status, can
get West Nile virus.
There are three main actions you can take to protect your children:
- Put insect repellent on your child whenever they go outdoors, just as you
do with sunscreen on a sunny day. It should have the recommended percentage
of an approved ingredient (10% or less for children in the case of DEET) and
be used according to package directions. For the record, products with DEET
in them have been used safely in Canada for over 5 decades. Used responsibly
and according to manufacturers instructions, DEET does not pose any health
risk to children. You shouldn't use DEET on infants less than 6 months so
make sure to protect them with netting, by covering exposed skin, or by keeping
them indoors when you know mosquitoes are active.
- Have your kids wear protective clothing - light-coloured clothing with
pant legs, long sleeves, and a hat - especially if they are outside when mosquitoes
are most active, usually at dawn and dusk. Consider putting a long-sleeved
white t-shirt under a soccer uniform, or insisting on khakis, socks, and sneakers
for evening play. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours, so having your
children wear light-coloured clothing really makes a difference.
- Remove all sources of standing water - prime mosquito breeding grounds
- including flower pots, wading pools, and old tires, from around your property.
And make sure your screens are in good repair.
Since evidence shows that West Nile virus can be transmitted to an unborn child,
pregnant women should take steps to reduce their risk of mosquito bites. It
is possible that West Nile virus could be passed to a child through breast milk,
but the level of risk is still unknown. Women who have concerns about the potential
to transmit West Nile virus through breastfeeding or during pregnancy should
consult their doctor for advice in their specific situation.
If we all take action to protect our children, we can reduce the number of
kids who get sick from West Nile virus this summer. It is a small price to pay
for their health.
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This article was prepared by 
