FRANCAIS
June 19, 2003
WEST NILE VIRUS UPDATE #1
As of June 18, more than 150 birds have been tested for West Nile virus (WNv) in Manitoba. The bird surveillance program began May 1, 2003.
A crow found in the RM of East St. Paul on June 10 is the only confirmation of WNv in the province. There are no positive test results for horses or other animals.
There have been no human cases of West Nile virus diagnosed in Manitoba.
Testing birds from the crow family provides an early indication of West Nile virus in mosquitoes near the location of the dead bird. Once testing has demonstrated the presence of WNv in a specific area, further pickup and testing of birds in that area will be given a lower priority than birds in other areas.
Manitobans can help detect the arrival of West Nile virus in their area by reporting dead crows, blue jays, magpies or ravens to Health Links at 788-8200 in Winnipeg (outside of Winnipeg toll-free 1-888-315-9257. Links to pictures of these birds can be viewed under bird surveillance at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.
Handling and disposing of dead birds and small animals can be done safely. First make sure that the animal is dead to avoid being bitten or scratched. Avoid touching it with your bare hands. Use a plastic bag or shovel to pick it up. After sealing the bird in the plastic bag, wash your hands carefully. Dispose of the plastic bag in regular garbage. Health Links and the Manitoba Health West Nile virus Web site have further information on how to safely handle a dead bird or animal.
Remember, Manitobans can:
- reduce mosquitoes by emptying standing water that may collect in backyards, old tires, children's toys, pet bowls, wading pools or stagnant ponds, or under flower pots;
- reduce mosquito bites by wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, using mosquito repellent with DEET and reducing the amount of time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk.
Public information about West Nile virus is available by calling Health Links at 788-8200 in Winnipeg or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257. Additional information is available on the Manitoba Health Web site at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv. Weekly bulletins will provide regular updates to this information.
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