June 22, 2006

Adult mosquito trap information from the week of June 11 indicated the presence of low numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes in southern Manitoba.

Preliminary trap information from the week of June 18 indicates the Culex tarsalis numbers in southern Manitoba remain low.

No mosquito samples tested positive for WNV for the week of June 11.

To date, no human cases of WNV have been identified in Manitoba in 2006.

Testing of mosquitoes for West Nile virus is ongoing at Cadham Provincial Laboratory. Weekly average trap counts of Culex tarsalis by regional health authority are 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.

Manitobans can reduce the number of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes around their homes 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.

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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