Health & Wellness

Protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases in B.C. and Canada

Some of our favourite summer activities like camping, hiking or relaxing at the beach can mean encounters with mosquitoes. 

Mosquitoes in Canada can carry viruses that may cause serious illness in humans. While the risk of infection remains low for most people, preventing mosquito bites is the best way to reduce your risk.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites

Reduce your risk of infection by taking these simple precautions whenever you are outdoors.

  • Apply an approved insect repellant e.g., containing according to the product label.
  • Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and closed-toe shoes. Tuck your shirt into your pants, and your pants into your socks
  • Limit outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity, particularly at dusk and dawn.
  • Install and maintain tight-fitting screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
  • Use mosquito netting over strollers, playpens and cribs when infants are outdoors.

Reduce mosquitoes around your home

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, even in amounts as small as a tablespoon. Eliminating breeding sites around your property is one of the most effective ways to reduce mosquito populations.

  • Empty standing water from flowerpots, buckets, toys, tarps, birdbaths and wheelbarrows at least twice a week
  • Clean roof gutters and ensure proper drainage
  • Cover rain barrels with fine mesh screens
  • Maintain swimming pools and ornamental ponds, and increase water flow in water features (pools, ponds, fountains)
  • Keep grass trimmed and remove yard debris where mosquitoes may rest

When to seek care

Some mosquitos can spread illness when they bite you. In B.C., California serogroup (CSG) viruses are a group of related viruses spread by mosquitoes that include the Jamestown Canyon virus and the Snowshoe Hare virus. Simple steps to prevent mosquito bites are the best way to protect yourself. 

For most Canadians, the risk of getting this illness or serious health effects is very low.

Most mosquito bites only cause mild itching and irritation. After a bite, try not to scratch and monitor how you feel.

Seek urgent medical care if you develop serious symptoms during mosquito season such as:

  • Fever
  • Confusion
  • A severe headache with a stiff neck
  • Seizures
  • Weakness
  • Trouble speaking

 

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