The province reports that mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus have been found in Manitoba.
Two infected mosquito pools have been identified in Brandon and Winnipeg, according to a release from the province on Friday.
There have been no reports on the virus being transmitted to humans this year. Last year there were no West Nile infected mosquitoes found in Manitoba.
There are permanent mosquito traps set up in 21 community areas in southern Manitoba to monitor the Culex tarsalis mosquitoes — which are the most likely mosquito species to transmit West Nile to humans.
The Manitoba Government has released some tips on how to best protect yourself from the West Nile virus:
- Apply an appropriate insect repellent when outdoors and follow the instructions on the label.
- Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pant legs while outdoors.
- Reduce time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn.
- Make sure your doors and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes.
- Reduce the mosquito habitat around your home by regularly cleaning and emptying water-holding containers such as birdbaths, wading pools, children's toys, eavestroughs, tarp covers and plant trays.
For an up-to-date look at the provincial data on West Nile virus in Manitoba, click here.
