Manitoba Health has issued a reminder about infectious diseases like West Nile virus, Lyme disease, E. coli infections, rabies, hantavirus and blastomycosis.
The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health recommends:
Reducing standing water arounds homes, so mosquitoes don't breed and spread West Nile virus.
Raking precautions to avoid contact with black-legged ticks, which may carry Lyme disease.
Handling food properly to avoid E. coli infections.
Vaccinating pets and avoiding touching wildlife to reduce the risk of rabies.
Avoiding exposure to dust from mice droppings to reduce risk of hantavirus infections, and staying away from fungal spores found in soil that can cause blastomycosis.
To prevent West Nile
Clean eavestroughs and empty bird baths regularly.
Cover rain barrels with mosquito screening.
Clear yards of things like old tires that collect water.
Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors and wearing mosquito repellant.
Have properly screened doors and windows.
West Nile facts
Most West Nile infections are reported in July and August.
Of those infected, less than one per cent develop serious illness, but 20 per cent develop West Nile non-neurological syndrome, which leads to fever, headache, and body aches.
First cases of West Nile in Manitoba were in 2003. In 2007, human cases peaked at 587, leading to four deaths.
Information on all the diseases can be seen at gov.mb.ca/health. Manitobans can also call Health Links at 788-8200, or 1-888-315-9257
PREVIOUS
