The man, who is in his 50s, had only mild symptoms of the disease.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people by mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds. The virus can also be spread through blood transfusions, and from pregnant women to their babies.
Most mosquitoes do not carry the West Nile virus. However, Manitoba Health said in a media bulletin that more mosquitoes have been identified in the province as having West Nile virus this year than in previous years. In addition, Manitoba Health said that even though the risk of contracting the virus is presently low, the risk will increase over the next few weeks.
People who contract the West Nile virus generally do not become ill, but those who do may have symptoms that include headaches, fever, and body aches. In rarer cases, vulnerable persons, such as those who are elderly or have other medical conditions, may have brain inflammation leading to paralysis, coma, and even death.
People can minimize their chances of contracting the West Nile virus by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites. Protective measures include limiting the amount of time spent outdoors, wearing insect repellent and protective clothing, and also eliminating standing pools of water where mosquitoes can breed.
The first human cases of West Nile virus in Manitoba were also reported in mid-June last year.
