STUDY SHOWS WEST NILE WIDE SPREAD IN FIVE HILLS HEALTH REGION LAST SUMMER

Released on July 29, 2004

A new study shows that more people were infected with West Nile Virus (WNV) in the Five Hills Health Region last year, than in any other place studied in North America since the disease arrived. Ten per cent of the adults that participated in the survey had evidence of an infection from last summer.

Saskatchewan Health, in conjunction with the Five Hills Health Region and Health Canada, conducted a study this past spring.

A similar study conducted in Ontario (2002), had a result of 3.1 per cent, while studies done in New York State (1999 & 2000) had results ranging from 0.5-2.6 per cent.

In rural areas studied within the health region, the risk of infection was five times greater than in the city of Moose Jaw. The survey also showed that people 60 years of age and older were more likely to get infected and less likely to use insect repellent.

"The study provides more evidence that using multiple protective measures reduces the risk of contracting West Nile Virus," Five Hills Health Region Medical Health Officer Dr. Mark Vooght said.

Survey participants were from the communities of Moose Jaw, Assiniboia, Gravelbourg, Mossbank and Willow Bunch. In total, 619 people answered a survey between March and April. Of those, 501 also submitted a blood sample.

"Although we don't have any human cases in 2004, we are entering the highest risk period," Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Ross Findlater said. "People will get West Nile Virus infections this summer, and it is important they think about protecting themselves."

Saskatchewan residents are urged to use personal protective measures when outside. These include using an insect repellant, and wearing protective clothing when mosquitoes are most active, which is at dawn and dusk.

People are also reminded to eliminate any potential breeding sites in their yard for WNV. A mosquito can hatch in as little as a tablespoon of water.

More information on WNV can be obtained by going to the Saskatchewan Health website at www.health.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083

Dr. Mark Vooght Five Hills Health Region Moose Jaw Phone: (306)691-6400