FRANCAIS
October 16, 2003
WEST NILE VIRUS UPDATE #19
Five additional Manitobans have tested positive for West Nile virus. The total number of West Nile human cases in Manitoba is 137--24 confirmed and 113 probable.
One of the new cases is an individual living in Winnipeg; the other four reside outside Winnipeg in southern Manitoba.
Of the 137 cases, 27 reside in Winnipeg and 110 reside outside of Winnipeg. In Manitoba, there are 33 cases of West Nile neurological syndrome, 81 cases of West Nile fever, one asymptomatic blood donor and 22 cases yet to be classified.
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.
As of Oct. 16, 134 birds, 47 horses and 24 sentinel chickens have tested positive for West Nile virus.
Mosquito and corvid surveillance ended on Sept. 30. Human, horse and sentinel chicken surveillance is continuing.
There is still the potential for 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 individuals 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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