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Going Outdoors Vigilance Is Needed To Avoid Contracting Disease

Toronto- Many citizens are enjoying the end of a typical Canadian Summer, but it is important to keep vigilant to make sure that your summer is not marred by contracting the West Nile Virus.

Many regions in and throughout Canada are at risk because some of the mosquitoes that carry the disease hit their peak in late August and early September.

The prime transmission time for much of Canada for the West Nile Virus is in August.

West Nile virus is carried to humans by mosquitoes that bite other people that are infected, but most often the mosquitoes feed on diseased or dead birds that have the West Nile Virus.

After being in contact with these infected birds, the mosquitoes then bite humans, transferring the virus.

There are some simple things you can do to reduce your risk and prevent being bitten.

When you are outside, wear long sleeved shirts, and pants, and wear clothing that is light coloured.

Keep insect repellent on hand, repellents that have the ingredient DEET in them are the most effective, but you have to be careful not to use them excessively.