Radio Public Service Announcement - 3

For release September 8, 2003
Health Canada - West Nile First Nation
Script 3
Reporter: Sherri Dmyterko (dem-a-TAR-ko)
Length: 12 seconds (audio quote)

Help on accessing alternative formats, such as Portable Document Format (PDF), Microsoft Word and PowerPoint (PPT) files, can be obtained in the alternate format help section.

Anchor Script: (read by news anchor)

The threat of West Nile virus doesn't have to put a damper on outdoor activities this year as long as you take precautions to protect yourself against mosquito bites. It's recommended that you wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing when outdoors, as well as use mosquito repellents containing DEET or other approved ingredients. Because West Nile virus infection can be serious, it's also important to know the symptoms. Keith Conn is with the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch of Health Canada.

(Interview with Keith Conn)

"Many people infected with West Nile show no symptoms at all, or only mild flu-like symptoms. Others experience more severe symptoms like severe headaches, high fever, stiff neck, and nausea."

Anchor Script: (read by news anchor)

If you experience any of these more severe symptoms, it's important to seek medical help immediately. Everyone is at risk for serious health effects associated with West Nile infection, but the risk increases with age and for those with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases such as diabetes. For the latest information on West Nile virus, visit Health Canada's website at  www.westnilevirus.gc.ca, call Health Canada's toll-free info-line at 1-800-816-7292... or contact your local nursing station or community health centre.