Manitoba to spray mosquitoes in Winkler, ‘evidence’ of West Nile infection

The province is going to spray against mosquitoes in the city of Winkler, because there are indications that mosquitoes are infected with the West Nile virus.

The Manitoba government announced Wednesday that a “ministerial order under the Environmental Protection Act” has been issued allowing spraying to take place in the area.

The government has indicated that spraying will take place in Winkler, as well as in a three-kilometre zone that includes Reinfield, Chortitz and Schanzenfeld.

“Public health officials note that wet conditions early in the season and recent warmer, drier weather have created ideal conditions for Culex tarsalis mosquitoes to spread West Nile virus. The risk of potential human exposure to WNV is currently high in the Southern Health-Santé Sud region,” the government said in a news release.

The province confirmed that there have been no “locally acquired” cases of West Nile virus in Manitoba.

However, people are advised to take preventative measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. These measures may include limiting the time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours between dusk and dawn, using appropriate insect repellent, wearing light-colored clothing with long sleeves and pants, and emptying outdoor gear that contains water.

Weather permitting, spraying in the area will begin on August 1.

More information can be found on the government website.