FRANCAIS
September 05, 2003
WEST NILE VIRUS BULLETIN #9
Three new probable human cases of West Nile virus infection have been identified in Manitoba, bringing the total number of West Nile human cases to 10--two confirmed and eight probable.
A woman in her fifties from the Rural Municipality of Morton has been reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile fever. This individual was not hospitalized and is recovering at home.
A man in his forties from the Rural Municipality of Albert has been reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile fever. This individual was hospitalized but is now recovering at home.
A woman in her fifties from Winnipeg has been reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile fever. This individual was not hospitalized and is recovering at home.
Four of the 10 cases have been reported as having West Nile virus neurological syndrome, which includes encephalitis, meningitis or other nervous system disorders. This is the more severe but less common form of this disease. It can be life-threatening and may result in long-term complications, especially for those over the age of 50 or with chronic medical conditions.
Five of the 10 cases have been reported as cases of West Nile virus fever, which is a mild illness and may include symptoms of fever, headache, sore muscles, fatigue and a rash. Full recovery is expected and does not usually require medical care or hospitalization.
One case, discovered through the testing of donated blood by Canadian Blood Services, has been reported to Health Canada as an asymptomatic case of West Nile virus.
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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