August 08, 2005

Further information is now available on the three suspected human cases of West Nile virus infection indicated by lab testing last week.

One individual is an Interlake Regional Health Authority resident in his 60s. Based on information provided to health officials, it is likely that the individual was exposed during the third week of July in the town of Winnipeg Beach. The individual, who is currently in hospital, will be reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile neurological syndrome.

A second individual is an Assiniboine Regional Health Authority resident in her 40s. Based on information provided to health officials, it is likely the individual was exposed during the first or second week of July in the town of Deloraine. The individual, who was not hospitalized, will be reported to Health Canada as a probable case of West Nile non-neurological syndrome.

Information on a third individual is still being collected to determine if they meet the criteria for a probable case of West Nile virus.

In addition, a resident of Nova Scotia who had visited Manitoba and Ontario during the probable period of exposure has tested positive for West Nile virus and has been hospitalized in Halifax. The individual was probably exposed to the virus in Winnipeg during the third week of July.

In previous years, the last week of July and the month of August have been the peak period for the risk of human exposure to West Nile virus in Manitoba. Surveillance data indicate the virus is present throughout southern Manitoba at this time.

Now and throughout the month of August is the most important time to take personal protective precautions against mosquitoes in both urban and rural areas. Manitobans can reduce the risk of mosquito bites by:

• reducing the amount of time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours between dusk and dawn,

• using appropriate mosquito repellent,

• reducing standing water around homes, and

• wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.

Public information about West Nile virus and mosquito control in areas under a health order is available by calling Health Links-Info Santé at 788-8200 in Winnipeg or toll-free at
1-888-315-9257. Information is also available on the Manitoba Health website at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.

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