Weekly West Nile Virus Update

 

September 7, 2022

Adult mosquito surveillance conducted during the week of August 28, 2022 and September 3, 2022 detected a significant decrease in the numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes compared to the previous week. Culex tarsalis activity was detected in all but two of the twenty-one trapping communities. An additional 6 WNV positive pools were detected, 4 from Altona, and one each from Winkler, and Winnipeg. To date there have been 39 WNV positive pools, three human cases and 8 positive birds reported to Manitoba Health.

With cooler temperatures, Cx. tarsalis activity continues to decrease. However, even though the risk is lowering, while enjoying some of the last warm days of the summer Manitobans should continue to take steps to reduce their risk of mosquito bites and exposure to WNV, particularly in the late afternoon and early evening when potentially infected Culex tarsalis mosquitoes can be active 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 with long sleeves and pant legs, and
  • maintaining door and window screens so they fit tightly and are free of holes. 

For WNV health concerns, contact your doctor or call:

Health Links – Info Santé
204-788-8200 (Winnipeg) or toll-free 1-888-315-9257