FRANCAIS

August 27, 2003

• Additional information is now available on the fifth probable case of West Nile virus infection identified in Manitoba.
• A man in his seventies from a rural property in the Rural Municipality of Cartier is currently in hospital in fair condition. The individual has been reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile neurological syndrome.
• West Nile neurological syndrome includes encephalitis, meningitis or other nervous system disorders.
• The fourth case of probable West Nile virus infection, a woman in her sixties, has been determined to be a resident of a rural property in the RM of Cartier. Yesterday, it was reported that she was a resident of the RM of Macdonald. She has been reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile fever. This individual was not hospitalized.
• West Nile fever is a mild illness and may include symptoms of fever, headache, sore muscles, fatigue and a rash.
• 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.

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