July 29, 2022
West Nile Virus Bulletin #2
Manitoba Health is reporting the province’s first confirmed human case of West Nile virus (WNV) this season, a female in her 60s who lives in the Interlake–Eastern Regional Health Authority.
Additionally, a pool of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes carrying WNV has been collected in Brandon. This is the second positive pool to date.
The risk of exposure to WNV is currently low, but likely to increase in the coming weeks, as the highest risk period is historically in late July and early August. Manitobans are reminded that it takes just a single bite from an infected mosquito to contract WNV.
While most people who are infected will develop mild or no symptoms, some can develop severe symptoms that can result in hospital stays and even death. Recovery from WNV infection, particularly severe symptoms, can take months or years.
While Manitobans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, it is critical to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and potential exposure to WNV by:
- reducing the amount of time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours between dusk and dawn;
- using an appropriate mosquito repellent;
- wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pant legs;
- maintaining door and window screens; and
- cleaning and emptying yard items that collect water.
Between 2017 and 2021, there were 45 cases of WNV in Manitoba. Nine cases were hospitalized and four required intensive care.
WNV updates will continue to be shared with the public throughout the summer.
For more information about prevention, symptoms, weekly average trap counts of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, fact sheets, posters and information for municipalities and health-care providers, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/.
Manitobans can also contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or at 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free) for more information.
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