Manitoba Health

The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health reports that preliminary analysis from adult mosquito traps for the week of June 30 has identified low numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes in several communities in southern Manitoba.

The numbers of nuisance mosquitoes, which do not carry West Nile virus, have significantly increased in the traps this week.

Culex tarsalis mosquitoes are the mosquitoes most likely to carry the West Nile virus. The numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes are expected to increase over the next week. At this time, the risk of being bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus is considered low but is expected to increase over the next week.

No positive West Nile virus mosquito samples have been identified at this time. To date, no human cases of West Nile virus have been identified in Manitoba in the 2008 season.

Manitobans can prepare for mosquito season by reducing standing water around their homes. To prevent the development of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, reducing standing water is beneficial from June until September. This includes:

• cleaning eavestroughs and regular emptying of bird baths and other items that might collect water;
• ensuring rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening or are tightly sealed around the downspout;
• clearing yards of old tires or other items that collect water; and improving landscaping to prevent standing water around the home.

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;
• wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing; and
• maintaining door and window screens so they fit tightly and are free of holes.