Communicable Disease Prevention and Control

Insect and Animal-Related Diseases

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes.  Mosquitoes pick up the virus from feeding on birds and then can transmit the illness to humans.  The risk of west Nile virus in Nova Scotia is very low.

There have been no human cases of West Nile virus acquired in Nova Scotia.

Starting in 2010 dead birds in Nova Scotia will no longer be routinely tested for West Nile virus. No birds have tested positive since 2003.  If clusters of dead birds are noticed, this may be due to a number of causes so it is important to contact the local Department of Natural Resources.

Nova Scotia Health and Wellness recommends protecting yourself and your family from West Nile virus and other mosquito borne diseases by following the advice outlined in our brochure.

For more information on West Nile virus check out the following links:

• West Nile Virus Brochure
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Health Canada
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( USA )
• Canadian Blood Services and West Nile Virus