Manitoba Health reports that one Culex tarsalis mosquito carrying the West Nile virus (WNV) was collected from one test pool in the City of Selkirk during the week of July 2-8.
The Province monitors mosquito traps throughout the city and at this time the city does not meet the Province’s criteria for fogging. If and when the province determines fogging is required, residents will be notified in advance.
The process most commonly used to control mosquitoes is called larviciding and proactively kills mosquito larvae before they become adults.
Citizens are still encouraged to enjoy the warm weather activities but be sure to 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.
You can also reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by eliminating standing water. To reduce standing water:
- 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.
In 2022, there were seven cases of WNV in Manitoba, and five of those were hospitalized. No confirmed human cases of WNV have been identified in Manitoba yet this year.
For more information about prevention, symptoms, weekly average trap counts of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, fact sheets, posters and information for municipalities and health-care providers, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/.
Manitobans can also contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or at 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free) for more information.
Larviciding underway
The City of Selkirk began a West Nile Virus targeted Larviciding Program on May 4.
Larviciding is the most effective and environmentally acceptable method of mosquito population reduction. Mosquito larvae are concentrated in water sites which make them the most vulnerable stage of the mosquito lifecycle. By targeting larvae in standing water, countless numbers of mosquitoes are killed before they reach the flying adult, biting stage.
Biological larvicide VectoBac® is being applied where mosquito larvae are identified. This larvicide can be used in populated areas, and is safe for humans and domestic animals.
All pesticide used and procedures applied are in accordance with federally approved label recommendations from the Pest Management Regulatory Agency, Health Canada and the recommendations set by Manitoba Conservation and Climate.
