Wave

Summer 2014

Winnipeg's Health and Wellness Magazine

Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/359789

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What are the symptoms? • A severe case of West Nile virus (WNV) can be life-threatening and may result in long-term disability. • Some people develop an illness with symptoms such as fever, rash, headache, fatigue and body aches. • Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms and do not become ill. Who is at risk? • Everyone is at risk of coming into contact with the virus. • Severe illness most often occurs among older adults or people with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems. However, severe illness has occurred in all age groups. When is the risk highest? • •e risk of WNV infection is highest during late June, July, August and early September. • •e risk varies from year to year based on temperature, precipitation, mosquito population and other factors. How do I protect against WNV? • Reduce the time you spend outside between dusk and dawn. • Apply an appropriate mosquito repellent. • Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pant legs. • Get rid of standing water around your home. • Make sure your door and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes. For more information, visit our website at manitoba.ca/health/wnv. For questions about WNV health concerns, contact your doctor or call Health Links - Info Santé at 204-788-8200 (in Winnipeg); toll-free 1-888-315-9257. PROTECT YOURSELF FROM WEST NILE VIRUS What you need to know "Chronic fatigue and bouts of depression – all from the bite of a mosquito. Please take the time to protect yourself and those you love." - Wayne, age 60 (Diagnosed with WNV in 2005) "Mosquitos infected with West Nile virus can bite anyone – and that 'anyone' could be you! Take precautions to cut down the risk." - Rachel (Lost her 66-year-old father to WNV in 2007) BEWARE OF THE HEAT! With the rise in temperature and humidity during the summer months also comes the increased risk of a number of heat-related conditions, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even death. As a result, it is important to be aware of how heat can affect your body and to take the appropriate precautions. This is especially true for those who are sensitive to the heat, especially older adults and children. People who take medications also need to be aware. Medications to treat mental health conditions, seizures, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, high blood pressure and cardiac conditions, including angina and arrhythmias, can affect the body's ability to adapt to heat. Drugs for some other health conditions may also increase your risk of heat illness. It's important to ask your health- care provider or pharmacist whether the medication you're taking affects your ability to cope with heat. For more information on how you can protect you and your family, visit www.wrha.mb.ca

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