West Nile virus

What is West Nile virus?

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause West Nile Non-Neurological syndrome (formerly known as West Nile fever) or occasionally the more serious West Nile Neurological Syndrome.

WNV is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. WNV can affect anyone – one in five people who do become infected become ill. Severe illness associated with the virus is rare, but risk increases with age. However, the good news is that you can take some simple steps to protect yourself and others.

• Alberta Health Services WNV public awareness campaign – Fight the Bite
• Reduce the risk – tips to protect yourself
• Common questions about West Nile virus
• How West Nile virus spreads (transmission)
• West Nile virus history
• Alberta's West Nile virus response plan
• Information for health professionals

West Nile virus in Alberta

The first evidence of WNV in Alberta was confirmed in July 2003.

• Read more on West Nile virus surveillance in Alberta
• West Nile virus and wildlife – Alberta Sustainable Resource Development.
• West Nile virus and horses – Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development.

Related reports

• West Nile virus Seroprevalence in Alberta, Estimating the Infection Rate 2009
• West Nile virus Infection Rate Study – Summary of Results 2005

Related websites

• Public Health Agency of Canada West Nile virus surveillance monitor
• Health Canada West Nile virus information
• The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention