October 1, 2004
West Nile Virus Update #13
West Nile Virus Update #13· This is the last regular West Nile virus (WNV) update to be released in 2004.
· Based on recent mosquito surveillance, the time of year and the life cycle of the Culex tarsalis mosquito, the current risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus in Manitoba is considered very low. Nuisance mosquitoes may remain active if warm weather persists.
· All mosquito surveillance and corvid surveillance in Manitoba ended on Sept. 30.
· Since Sept. 3, no Manitobans have tested positive for West Nile virus. The total number of reported human West Nile virus cases in Manitoba in 2004 is three.
· Of the three cases reported in Manitoba in 2004, one case was identified as West Nile neurological syndrome and two cases were identified as West Nile fever.
· The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health would like to acknowledge the participation of Manitobans in the bird surveillance program and the efforts of Manitobans who contributed to source water reduction on their property.
· Also important to the success of the program has been the work of partners including municipalities, communities and individuals throughout Manitoba who participated in the West Nile virus program, the City of Winnipeg, the City of Brandon, the City of Winkler, the University of Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba, Brandon University, Red River College, Cadham Provincial Laboratory, regional health authorities, Misericordia Health Links-Info Santé, Health Canada, Canadian Blood Services, Manitoba Conservation, Manitoba Intergovernmental Affairs, and Manitoba Agriculture and Food.
· The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health would also like to acknowledge the important role of the media in providing information to the public on West Nile virus.
· Work continues to analyze the information collected during this year's program which will be used to guide planning for 2005.
· Information regarding specific plans for next year's West Nile virus program will be available by the spring of 2005.
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