October 01, 2004
·
This
is the last regular West Nile virus (WNV) update to be released in 2004.
·
Based on recent mosquito surveillance, the time of
year and the life cycle of the Culex
tarsalis mosquito, the current risk of becoming infected with West Nile
virus in Manitoba is considered very low.
Nuisance mosquitoes may remain active if warm weather persists.
·
All
mosquito surveillance and corvid surveillance in Manitoba ended on Sept. 30.
·
Since
Sept. 3, no Manitobans have tested positive for West Nile virus. The total number of reported human West Nile
virus cases in Manitoba in 2004 is three.
·
Of
the three cases reported in Manitoba in 2004, one case was identified as West
Nile neurological syndrome and two cases were identified as West Nile fever.
·
The
Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health would like to acknowledge the
participation of Manitobans in the bird surveillance program and the efforts of
Manitobans who contributed to source water reduction on their property.
·
Also
important to the success of the program has been the work of partners including
municipalities, communities and individuals throughout Manitoba who
participated in the West Nile virus program, the City of Winnipeg, the City of
Brandon, the City of Winkler, the University of Winnipeg, the University of
Manitoba, Brandon University, Red River College, Cadham Provincial Laboratory, regional
health authorities, Misericordia Health Links-Info Santé, Health Canada,
Canadian Blood Services, Manitoba Conservation, Manitoba Intergovernmental
Affairs, and Manitoba Agriculture and Food.
·
The
Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health would also like to acknowledge
the important role of the media in providing information to the public on West
Nile virus.
·
Work
continues to analyze the information collected during this year’s program which
will be used to guide planning for 2005.
·
Information
regarding specific plans for next year's West Nile virus program will be
available by the spring of 2005.
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