The first mosquito infected with West Nile virus (WNV) has been found in the province. Offical say, at this time, no human cases of West Nile virus have been identified.
The infected mosquitoes were collected from an adult mosquito trap in Winnipeg during the week of June 17th. There are currently no orders for adult mosquito control in the province.
The risk of exposure to WNV is expected to continue in Southern Manitoba for the coming weeks, particularly if conditions remain warm and dry.
You can reduce the risk of mosquito bites and exposure to West Nile virus 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
Reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by following these steps:
- clean eavestroughs and regularly empty bird baths, old tires and other items that collect water;
- ensure rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening or are tightly sealed around the downspout; and
- improve landscaping to prevent standing water around the home.
More information about West Nile virus, including weekly average trap counts, fact sheets, posters and information for municipalities and health-care providers, is available at www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv.