West Nile virus (WNV) is once again present in Quebec. Three cases have been reported this year, including one in Montérégie.
In a press release, the Montérégie Public Health Department reminds us of the importance of protecting yourself against mosquito bites throughout the summer, and until the first frosts of fall.
In the majority of cases (80%), she specifies, people infected with the West Nile virus recover spontaneously, without being bothered.
However, some mild symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after being infected, including headache, fever, stomach ache, nausea, muscle pain or redness of the skin.
“It is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites, but you should never hesitate to enjoy the nice weather. Staying active and playing sports outdoors are excellent ways to protect your health,” says Dr. Julie Loslier, Director of Public Health for Montérégie.
Less than 1% of people infected with the virus will develop a serious form of the disease such as meningitis, encephalitis or paralysis of the lower limbs.
People aged 50 and over, those with chronic illnesses and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing complications.
Previous records
Since the start of WNV surveillance, two significant increases in the number of cases have been observed in Quebec, in 2012 and 2018 with 134 and 201 cases of WNV reported respectively.
Apart from these two significant years, the number of cases fluctuated from 1 to 63 cases per year.
Last year, 20 cases of WNV infection were reported in Quebec, including 6 in Montérégie.
Prevention, the best weapon
West Nile virus infection is a reportable disease.
There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for West Nile virus.
The best way to prevent infection, Public Health says, is to avoid mosquito bites.
How to protect yourself:
• Wear long, light-colored clothing when outdoors, especially during periods of mosquito activity, such as sunrise and sunset;
• Use mosquito repellent. To do this, follow the advice for using mosquito repellent;
• Install mosquito nets in good condition on the doors and windows of your residence, as well as on your tent and camping shelter;
• Cover strollers and playpens with mosquito nets when they are outdoors;
• Reduce the number of mosquitoes in the environment by eliminating stagnant water and keeping the environment clean.
