B.C. Health Officials Study Mosquitoes in Sea-to-Sky Region

Mosquito traps have been set up across the Sea-to-Sky region in British Columbia as health officials launch a pilot project to understand the area’s mosquitoes and the illnesses they spread. Vancouver Coastal Health reported four cases of mosquito-borne illnesses last year, resulting in brain swelling. The patients likely acquired the infections in the area along Howe Sound and north to Whistler and Pemberton.

Dr. Moliehi Khaketla, medical health officer for Vancouver Coastal Health, mentioned that the viruses aren’t new to B.C., but it’s unusual to see such severe human cases. Traps have already been set up in the region, and the four patients have recovered from their illness.

The mosquito project will last for three months to learn more about the risk to the public. Preventive measures against mosquito bites are recommended for those in the area. The study aims to understand the mosquito population within the Sea to Sky area and the specific viruses they carry.

Mosquito-borne illnesses, part of the California Serogroup viruses, usually present flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and occasional nausea or vomiting. Cases typically occur between May to October when mosquito activity increases, but this period may extend due to warmer temperatures from climate change.

Those who develop severe headaches with fever or seizures after being in the Sea-to-Sky region are advised to seek immediate care. Protective measures against mosquito bites include wearing protective clothing and eliminating stagnant water that can be breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Vancouver Coastal Health, the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, partners from the Lil’wat Nation and Squamish nations, and the University of British Columbia will collaborate on this surveillance pilot project.

According to the source: CityNews Vancouver.