FRANCAIS
October 23, 2003
WEST NILE VIRUS UPDATE #20
- One new case of West Nile virus has been identified in Manitoba. This brings the total number of positive human West Nile cases in Manitoba to 138--35 confirmed and 103 probable.
- The newly identified individual lives outside Winnipeg in southwestern Manitoba.
- Of the 138 cases, 27 reside in Winnipeg and 111 reside outside of Winnipeg. In Manitoba, there are 37 cases of West Nile neurological syndrome, 92 cases of West Nile fever, one asymptomatic blood donor and eight cases yet to be classified.
- As of Oct. 23, 47 horses and 24 sentinel chickens have tested positive for West Nile virus.
- Mosquito and corvid surveillance ended on Sept. 30. Sentinel chicken surveillance will end tomorrow. Human and horse 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.
- 30 -
RETURN