FRANCAIS

August 22, 2003

• The second probable human case of West Nile virus infection has been identified in Manitoba. The individual, a Neepawa area resident in his twenties, had a mild illness that did not require hospitalization. The individual has been reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile fever, which is a mild illness and may include symptoms of fever, headache, sore muscles, fatigue and a rash.

• Surveillance data from around the province has shown the presence of the virus throughout most of Southern Manitoba and that the risk of contracting West Nile virus in Manitoba has increased.

• All Manitobans, especially those over the age of 50 or with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems, are advised to:

• reduce the amount of time outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active;
• wear light-coloured, loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outside;
• use insect repellent containing DEET; and
• check that door and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes.

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 West Nile virus Web site at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.

- 30 -