West Nile Virus (WNV) is considered to be the most widely distributed vector-borne disease in North America. The virus is mainly transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes transmit the virus after becoming infected by feeding on the blood of birds which carry the virus. Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms or they have flu-like symptoms. Sometimes though, the virus can cause severe illness, resulting in hospitalization and even death so it is important to know the symptoms of illness related to infection and how to minimize your risk, especially if virus activity is reported in an area near you.

The following WNV references are available on-line:

 

West Nile Virus: Protect Yourself, Public Health Agency of Canada

West Nile Virus: Fight the Bite, US Center for Disease Control and Prevention

West Nile Virus, Alberta Health

What You Need To Know About West Nile Virus, Manitoba Health

West Nile Virus (WNV), BC Centre for Disease Control

West Nile Virus, Saskatchewan Health