Weekly West Nile Virus Update
The WNV Story Map may not always be updated at the same time as the WNV Surveillance Statistics website and the Weekly Update. Please check back later if the Story Map does not align with the Weekly Surveillance Statistics and Weekly Update.
June 7, 2024
Adult mosquito surveillance conducted during the week of May 26 to June 1, 2024 detected low numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes in two trapping communities in southern Manitoba. To date, no positive West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance indicators have been identified anywhere in the province.
Recent rain events have created areas of standing water that support mosquito larvae development. Although temperatures were cooler in May, preliminary trapping data for the week of June 2 to June 8 shows Culex tarsalis activity in 20 of 21 trapping communities, with numbers increasing. Higher temperatures are expected in the next few days and this will continue to support increased Cx. tarsalis activity. Although the current risk of WNV exposure is minimal, this will increase as we enter the historical high-risk period (i.e. July – August).
Manitobans are encouraged to enjoy warm weather activities and reduce the risk of mosquito bites and exposure to WNV 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.
Manitobans can also reduce the number of mosquitoes around their home by eliminating standing water. To reduce standing water:
- clean eaves troughs 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.
