It is summer! Transplant patients need to take some special precautions during this time of year as the mosquitos are out and the sun is shining.

MosquitosThere is concern about the possible spread of West Nile VIrus in our area this year.

• West Nile Virus is an insect-borne virus that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
• Human illness from West Nile virus is rare, even in areas where the virus has been reported. The chance that any one person is going to become ill from a mosquito bite is low.
• Those at highest risk are the elderly and people with weakened immune systems such as those patients recieving immunosuppression.
• This means that those who have recieved organ transplants may be especially vulnerable.

Therefore, we are asking transplant patients to take extra precautions to reduce their chances of becoming ill by protecting themselves from mosquito bites.

To avoid mosquito bites:

• The hours from dusk to dawn are peak mosquito biting times, therefore, consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times.
• If outdoors, wear clothing such as long pants and long sleeves.
• We recommend to apply insect repellent to exposed skin whenever outdoors. It is acceptable to use repellents containing DEET only in children over 2 years of age. In children aged 2-12, it is recommended to use products with a low concentration of DEET (10% or less). Be careful not to apply repellent to your child's hands or close to to your child's mouth or eyes.
• Treating clothes with repellents will give extra protection, since mosquitos mat bite through thin clothing.

• We recommend that you wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 and protection against UVA and UVB rays when you are going out into the sun (preferably apply at least 30-60 minutes before exposure).
• Remember to apply sunscreen to your ears, face and lips.
• Wear clothing to cover exposed areas of your skin if possible.
• Wear a hat.

Hope you have a great summer! Pediatric Nephrology, Alberta Children's Hospital