Mosquito season means the presence of mosquito-borne viruses such as West Nile virus. Questions about West Nile virus should be directed to Health Canada at 1-800-816-7292 or Saskatchewan Health at 1-800-667-7766.
HOW IS WEST NILE VIRUS SPREAD?
West Nile virus is usually transmitted to people through bites from infected mosquitoes. There are many types of mosquitoes, most of which are simply nuisance mosquitoes. The main carriers of WNv in Saskatchewan are Culex tarsalis mosquitoes.
Click here for information on the City of Saskatoon mosquito control program.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Saskatoon residents can assist with reducing mosquito populations by eliminating breeding sites on their property. Mosquitoes need water to breed, and their eggs and larvae can develop in any water, even small amounts, that are allowed to stand for four days or more. To aid in the prevention of mosquito breeding:
- Remove any standing or stagnant water from your property.
- Ensure items in and around the property, like pool covers, saucers under flower pots, children's toys, pet bowls and wading pools are regularly emptied or replaced with clean water.
- Clean eaves troughs regularly so water does not collect.
- Empty and clean bird baths twice weekly.
- Ensure that openings in rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening.
- Aerate ornamental ponds and stock with fish that eat mosquito larvae.
- Ensure that your yard is free of debris, such as old tires that can hold rainwater.
You can also take preventative measures to minimize the opportunity for mosquito bites by:
- Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and applying insect repellent;
- Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active;
- Making sure all windows and doors in homes are tight-fitting and properly screened.
MOSQUITO REPELLENTS
While mosquito control will provide some protection, it will not eliminate the risk of contracting West Nile virus (WNv). For this reason, residents should protect themselves with mosquito repellents, mosquito netting, or otherwise avoid mosquito bites.
Health Canada recommends the use of repellents containing concentrations of DEET, not to exceed 30% for adults or 10% for children two to twelve years of age. No more than one application of 10% DEET per day is recommended for infants six months to two years old. DO NOT USE DEET on infants under six months.
Some non-DEET repellents have been shown to provide protection for a period of time, similar to a product with a low concentration of DEET (4.75%). Use of these products is recommended instead of DEET for people with:
- Allergic skin reactions to products containing DEET.
- Irritated, sunburned, bruised or broken skin.
- Skin conditions such as skin cancer, dermatitis, acne, eczema or psoriasis.
2010 NEWS RELEASES/PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
June 1, 2010 - Conditions Ideal for Mosquito Development; Residents Encouraged to Remove Standing Water from Your Property and to Reduce the Risk of Mosquito Bites
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