Manitoba Health, Healthy Living and Seniors has identified the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) this year. The individual is a female in her 50s from the Southern Health-Santé Sud region, who did not experience neurological symptoms and was not hospitalized. She is believed to have been exposed during the week of July 26. The investigation is ongoing.
The current risk for human exposure is estimated to be low.
In Manitoba, the main carrier of the virus is the Culex tarsalis mosquito. The department’s surveillance program found this season’s first Culex tarsalis mosquito samples infected with WNV during the week of July 12. 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 2016.
For more information about West Nile virus, contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or 1 888 315-9257 (toll-free), or visit the Manitoba Health website at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.
