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The Risk of Exposure to the West Nile Virus Is Increasing Due To the Culex Tarsalis Mosquitoes

Summer is a beloved season by many, but with this great season also comes many unwanted things, like insects. In Manitoba, mosquitoes are one of the things that can lead to this warm summer being the most annoying of the four seasons. In Manitoba alone, there are more than thirty-five species of mosquitoes. 

Since mosquitoes carry many diseases, viruses, and infections, the mosquito problem has created many struggles for Manitobans. In Manitoba, mosquitoes have spread diseases such as Dengue fever, West Nile virus, Chikungunya virus, Yellow Fever and the Zika virus. Moreover, Manitoba is experiencing a big challenge this summer, that of the beginning of positively tested mosquito pools. The first mosquito pool, the Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, has tested positive for the West Nile virus (WNV).

“The risk of exposure to WNV is currently low but likely to increase in the coming weeks, as the highest risk period is historically in July and August. Manitobans are reminded that it takes just a single bite from an infected mosquito to contract WNV,” warned Manitoba Health. 

The Manitoba government is suggesting various things to lessen the exposure to infected mosquitoes, such as reducing outdoor time, using efficient mosquito repellent, wearing light-coloured and sleeved clothing, and emptying water-collecting yard items. 

“This is happening again; it happens most if not all summers. I feel kind of restricted, but that’s okay because it’s already too hot to spend so much time outside,” said Ahmad Jamil, a civilian, after being asked about his feelings regarding the news. 

To continue enjoying summer, Manitobans must take good care of themselves and try to follow the things suggested by The Manitoba Government. Although many people don’t show dangerous symptoms, some can have severe symptoms that might put their lives in danger, the province of Manitoba says. 


Sources:

https://www.winnipegregionalrealestatenews.com/publications/real-estate-news/312#:~:text=Winnipeg%20has%2038%20species%20of,different%20times%20during%20the%20day.

https://www.worldmosquitoprogram.org/en/learn/mosquito-borne-diseases

– Halla Alhamed, U Multicultural

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of U Multicultural.

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