News Releases

The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health advises that three additional human cases have tested positive for West Nile virus during the 2008 season in Manitoba.

 

To date, a total of 14 positive test results for West Nile virus have been reported in Manitoba in the 2008 season, including one positive test result identified in a non-Manitoban resident.  Additional information on these cases, including age, gender, regional health authority of residence and likeliest area of exposure, will be posted on the website at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv as it becomes available.

 

Mosquito surveillance information from the week of Sept. 7 indicates the average number of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes found in surveillance traps in southern Manitoba is very low.

 

Based on the most recent mosquito surveillance, the time of year and the life cycle of the Culex tarsalis mosquito, the risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus in Manitoba is low.  Weekly average trap counts are available online at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.

 

At this time of year, Culex tarsalis mosquitoes may be active during the day and early evening if the temperatures are warm, with almost no activity overnight during times of cool temperatures.

 

While the risk of exposure to infected mosquitoes is low at this time of year, personal protective precautions should still be considered during warmer weather when mosquitoes are active.

 

Manitobans can reduce the risk of mosquito bites by:

·         using appropriate mosquito repellent and wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing when mosquitoes are active; and

·         maintaining door and window screens so they fit tightly and are free of holes.

 

Analysis of information from this year’s program continues.  Information regarding specific plans for next year’s West Nile virus program will be available in spring 2009.

 

For more information about West Nile virus, contact Health Links–Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1‑888‑315-9257 (toll-free) or visit the Manitoba Health website at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.

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