News Releases

The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health reports that based on the 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.

 

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.  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.

 

To date in the 2008 season, the total number of Manitobans who have tested positive for West Nile virus is 13. One out-of-province resident also tested positive for West Nile virus. 

 

This will be the last regular weekly West Nile virus update for 2008.  Additional information on human 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.

 

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 and Healthy Living website at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.

 

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