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AHS encouraging Albertans to stay safe from insect and animal bites this summer
Albertans are encouraged to take precautions this summer when coming across wildlife and insects to prevent bites and infections.
Officials with Alberta Health Services (AHS) say insects can carry viruses and diseases in Alberta. West Nile virus is an infection spread by mosquitoes that can affect your brain and give you flu-like symptoms. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, an infection that can cause problems with your skin, joints, nervous system and heart.
Prevent mosquito and tick bites:
- Cover as much of your body as possible when outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Wear a light-coloured, long-sleeve shirt, long pants and a hat.
- Consider using a Health Canada-approved insect repellant (for example, products containing DEET or Icaridin) and follow the product label instructions. Always check for ticks when you come in from the outdoors.
- For more information on insect repellants and other products, visit Insect Repellents – MyHealthAlberta or Personal Insect repellents – Canada.ca
- If you’ve been bitten by a tick, call Health Link at 811. You can also submit a photo of the tick to the Submit-a-Tick program to help monitor ticks in Alberta.