June 13, 2006
Manitoba’s mosquito surveillance program has identified the first Culex tarsalis mosquito sample infected with West Nile virus (WNV) in Manitoba in 2006, one month earlier than identified in past years.
Samples collected during the week of June 4 from the city of Steinbach in the South Eastman Regional Health Authority indicate a small number of infected Culex tarsalis mosquitoes. Adult mosquito control has not been recommended at this time.
Recent larval surveillance indicates Culex tarsalis larvae are being found in a number of communities in southern Manitoba. Manitoba Health has advised participating municipalities in southern Manitoba to begin their Culex tarsalis larviciding programs.
Analysis of data from adult mosquito traps for the week of June 4 has identified low numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes in Manitoba. Weekly average trap counts of Culex tarsalis by regional health authority will be available on the province’s West Nile virus website at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv
At this time, the risk of becoming ill from West Nile virus is very low.
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, and
wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
To date, no human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) have been identified in Manitoba in 2006.
Manitobans can reduce the number of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes around their home by reducing standing water. This includes:
regularly cleaning and emptying eavestroughs, bird baths and other items that might collect water;
ensuring rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening or are tightly sealed around the downspout;
making sure yards are clear of old tires or other debris that collect water; and
making sure doors and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes.
Updated information on the risk of West Nile virus will be provided to the public throughout the summer. For more information about West Nile virus, contact Health Links–Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 or visit the Manitoba Health website at http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.
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