July 13, 2006
Adult mosquito trap information from the week of July 2 indicates a rise in the number of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes in many communities in southern Manitoba.
Preliminary trap information from the week of July 9 indicates the Culex tarsalis numbers in southern Manitoba are similar to the numbers from the week of July 2.
Samples collected during the week of July 2 from the City of Selkirk in the Interlake Regional Health Authority indicate a small number of infected Culex tarsalis mosquitoes. Adult mosquito control has not been recommended at this time.
This year, positive mosquito samples have been found in three Manitoba communities: Selkirk, Carman and Steinbach. The province continues to monitor adult Culex tarsalis mosquito numbers in these communities and across southern Manitoba.
The risk of becoming ill from West Nile virus is rising and will continue to increase in the coming weeks. In previous years, human cases have been exposed in early July. To date, no human cases of WNV have been identified in Manitoba.
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 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.
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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