Albertans are being urged to take precautions when heading outdoors.
The Government of Alberta has confirmed two cases of West Nile Virus in Southern Alberta, both of which occurred in mid-August this year.
“This is a reminder to Albertans, particularly seniors, to take precautions when enjoying the outdoors. Wear insect repellent with DEET, wear long-sleeved, light coloured shirts and pants, wear a hat, and consider staying indoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active,” said Dr. James Talbot, Albert Chief Medical Officer of Health. 
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. After being bitten, those infected with the virus can develop West Nile Non-neurological syndrome or, more rarely, the more serious West Nile Neurological Syndrome.
The symptoms for the non-neurological syndrome include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, skin rash, swollen glands, and headaches.
The neurological syndrome can induce tremors, drowsiness, confusion, swallowing problems, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis, and even death.
Nine cases of West Nile Virus were reported in Alberta last year, of which one resulted in death.
