By paNOW Staff

West Nile risk could increase

Jun 29, 2011 | 5:05 PM

Recent rains, standing water and high heat could mean a jump in mosquito populations—and the risk of West Nile Virus.

The virus is carried by a particular species of mosquito and unfortunately for the province’s residents, those mosquitoes also favour the type of weather seen in the last few days.

“Culex Tarsalus (the type of mosquito) is a hot weather mosquito and West Nile is a hot weather virus,” said provincial West Nile coordinator Phil Curry.

He said the best way to protect against the virus is to avoid getting bitten by the bug. This could mean long-sleeved clothing and repellent.

“Nobody likes mosquitoes and we do see repellent use go up,” Curry said.

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Currently, there have been no confirmed cases of the virus, but provincial workers will be on the lookout.

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