Manitoba Health has identified the first human case of West Nile virus of 2013. The individual is a female in her 40s from the Winnipeg Health Region and has reported mild symptoms to date. Exposure is believed to have occurred in this region earlier in the summer.
The risk for ongoing human exposures to West Nile virus (WNV) is low. However, with the current warm temperatures, Culex tarsalis mosquito activity has increased, particularly in the evening hours, and the risk of exposure to WNV may also increase. As the days become shorter, Culex tarsalis mosquitoes may become more active during the day and early evening, with reduced activity overnight.
Manitobans can reduce the risk of mosquito bites by:
- reducing the amount of time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours;
- 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.
Manitobans can reduce the number of mosquitoes around their homes by eliminating standing water. To prevent the development of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, homeowners can:
- clean eavestroughs and regularly empty bird baths and other items that might collect water,
- ensure rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening or are tightly sealed around the downspout,
- clear yards of old tires or other items that collect water, and
- improve landscaping to prevent standing water around the home.
Information on any additional human cases, including age, gender, health region of residence and likeliest area of exposure, will be posted at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv as it becomes available.
Analysis of information from this year’s program continues. Information regarding specific plans for next year’s West Nile virus program will be available in spring 2014.
For more information about West Nile virus, contact Health Links-Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1 888 315-9257 (toll-free), or visit the Manitoba Health website at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.
