What types of mosquitoes spread West Nile virus?
There are 74 known species of mosquitoes in Canada. West Nile virus infection has been found in 10 of these, but it is more common in species that feed on birds. Examples include Culex pipiens, Culex restuans and Culex tarsalis. Not all of the 74 different species in Canada are found in all parts of the country. The actual numbers of mosquitoes in different areas will vary according to the time of year. Temperature and rainfall can also have a dramatic effect on mosquito populations. It is estimated that fewer than 1% of mosquitoes in any given area are infected with WN virus. This means the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito is low. However, it could happen to anyone in areas where WN virus is active. The best way to reduce your risk is to avoid getting mosquito bites. Where was WN virus activity reported in North America during 2002? There were reports of WN virus in more than 40 states in the United States last year. The so-called hot spots, with the highest numbers of con
