August 31, 2005
The first human death of a patient with West Nile virus infection in Manitoba has been identified. The patient was an adult from southern Manitoba and was taking immune suppressive drugs for other medical conditions. The role that West Nile virus played in the death is under investigation. At the request of the family, to protect the identity of the deceased, further details about age and location of residence are being withheld.
Since last week’s update on Aug. 25, there have been four additional positive test results that are under investigation for West Nile virus in Manitoba. This brings the total number of Manitobans who have tested positive for West Nile virus this year to 30.
Following investigation by public health officials, 25 cases have been classified at this time:
Ten have been classified as probable cases of West Nile neurological syndrome.
Twelve have been classified as probable cases of West Nile non-neurological syndrome. These individuals did not require hospitalization.
Three have been classified as probable asymptomatic cases of West Nile virus. These cases were identified by Canadian Blood Services. The individuals did not show symptoms.
The remaining five cases are currently under investigation.
The 25 classified cases reside within the boundaries of seven Regional Health Authorities in southern Manitoba:
Winnipeg Regional Health Authority – nine;
Assiniboine Regional Health Authority – five;
Interlake Regional Health Authority – two;
Central Regional Health Authority – five;
Brandon Regional Health Authority – one;
North Eastman Regional Health Authority – one; and
South Eastman Regional Health Authority – two.
Further information on human cases will be posted on the website when it becomes available. So far this year, 1,542 people have been tested for WNV in Manitoba.
Most of these cases represent exposures to West Nile virus infected mosquitoes during July and the first half of August. At this time, the risk of exposure to infected mosquitoes is decreasing. However, there are still infected mosquitoes in southern Manitoba. During early September, the importance of taking personal protective precautions against mosquitoes continues. As daytime and evening temperatures become cooler, Culex tarsalis mosquitoes may become more active during the day as well as between dusk and dawn.
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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