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
Top Doc talks about West Nile virus
Alberta's former Top Doc, Dr. Andre Corriveau (Chief Medical Officer of Health), answers some common questions about West Nile virus.- Click on the video and all three West Nile videos will play in order.
- How is West Nile virus spread?
- What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
- How do you protect yourself against West Nile virus?
"Let's Go Outdoors" radio interviews – 2010
In 2010, Michael Short of "Let's Go Outdoors," interviewed Dr. Andre Corriveau about West Nile virus for radio promotion.
- Infections and Symptoms – MP3
- Protecting Yourself – MP3
- Deet and Children – MP3
- Immunity and Treatment – MP3
- Pregancy, Blood Transfusions – MP3



