FRANCAIS
September 29, 2003
WEST NILE VIRUS UPDATE #15
Six more Manitobans have tested positive for West Nile virus. This brings the total number of West Nile human cases to 116--eight confirmed and 108 probable.
Two of the new cases are individuals living in Winnipeg, while four of the new cases reside outside Winnipeg.
Of the 116 cases, 21 reside in Winnipeg and 95 reside outside of Winnipeg. In Manitoba, there are 27 cases of West Nile neurological syndrome, 59 cases of West Nile fever, one asymptomatic blood donor and 29 cases yet to be classified
In Winnipeg, there are seven cases of West Nile neurological syndrome, six cases of West Nile fever and eight cases yet to be classified.
Outside Winnipeg, there are 20 cases of West Nile neurological syndrome, 53 cases of West Nile fever, one asymptomatic blood donor and 21 cases yet to be classified. Two deaths have been attributed to West Nile virus.
More information on Manitoba cases of West Nile virus is available on the Manitoba Health West Nile virus Web site at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/stats.html.
Mosquito and corvid surveillance will end on Sept. 30. Human, horse and sentinel chicken surveillance will continue.
Although mosquito counts have been low, there are still infected mosquitoes in southern Manitoba that may be active, particularly in warmer weather. At this time of year, mosquitoes are more active outdoors in the late afternoon and early evening. Personal protection is advised at any time when mosquito activity is noticed, especially for people over the age of 50, or with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems.
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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