FRANCAIS
July 17, 2003
WEEKLY WEST NILE VIRUS UPDATE #5
As of 6 p.m. July 16, a total of 55 birds have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNv) in Manitoba including one great grey owl from the Winnipeg Zoo. Positive birds have been identified in all regional response team areas except the North. For more information visit: http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/stats.html.
Since May 1, 2003, 651 birds have been tested for WNv in Manitoba. 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 found in areas where WNv has not yet been discovered.
There have been no human cases of West Nile virus diagnosed in Manitoba.
Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, the mosquitoes most likely to be involved in WNv transmission to humans, have been found at surveillance locations throughout southern Manitoba. These mosquitoes prefer hot weather and conditions are favourable for their development at this time of year.
Nuisance mosquitoes (Aedes vexans) are influenced by rainfall and their numbers are low in the province at this time.
Manitobans can reduce the numbers of Culex tarsalis around their homes 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;
aerating ornamental ponds;
cleaning out eaves troughs;
cleaning and emptying bird baths weekly;
ensuring rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening or sealed tightly around the downspout; and
making sure your yard is clear of tires or other debris that collect water
For more information on reducing mosquito breeding sites, check out the Manitoba Health Web site at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.
Manitobans can 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. Individuals over 50 years of age or with medical conditions, including pregnancy, may wish to pay particular attention to these precautions.
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.
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.
Additional information is available on the Manitoba Health Web site at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.
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