West Nile virus prompts health alerts and mosquito‑bite precautions across North America

Public health agencies in Canada and the United States are warning residents about West Nile virus as mosquito activity peaks during the summer. In Alberta, Primary Care Alberta and Health Canada advise people to wear long sleeves, use DEET‑ or Icaridin‑based repellents, avoid outdoor exposure at dusk and dawn, and eliminate standing water. The agency notes that severe disease is rare—less than one percent of cases—so prevention is the primary defence.

In the United States, health officials echo similar guidance, urging the use of EPA‑registered repellents, protective clothing, and removal of mosquito‑breeding sites. While about 80 % of infections are asymptomatic, the remaining cases can present mild flu‑like symptoms or, in fewer than 1 % of infections, serious neurological illness. Early recognition of fever, headache, rash, or muscle aches is recommended.

Both jurisdictions stress that no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine exists, making personal protective measures essential to limit the spread of the virus.