July 28, 2005
A public health order under Manitoba’s
Environment Act has been issued to spray for adult mosquitoes with malathion in
the Rural Municipality of East St. Paul and approximately a three-kilometre
treatment area in surrounding municipalities because of high numbers of adult
Culex tarsalis mosquitoes and evidence of infection with West Nile virus.
Adult mosquito control is just one of the
components of the province’s West Nile virus strategy.
Intensified larviciding is underway across
Manitoba and the province is continuing its mosquito surveillance efforts
throughout southern Manitoba. Reduction
of standing water and personal protection are also very important measures.
Adult mosquito control occurs in the evening
and at night, depending on weather conditions, and will begin within the next
two days, weather conditions permitting. Health Canada finds the ultra-low
volume application of malathion for the control of adult mosquitoes will not
pose a health concern.
However, general
precautions are suggested any time pesticides are used including:
·
closing all doors and windows,
·
avoiding trucks while spraying is underway,
·
turning off fans and air conditioners or setting
them at exhaust,
·
removing clothes and children’s toys from outdoor
areas,
·
washing any household items or toys left outside
before using them, and
·
ensuring fruits and vegetables are washed.
For more information, visit http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv or call Health
Links-Info Santé at 1‑888-315-9257 or 788-8200 in Winnipeg.
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