West Nile Virus Adult Mosquito Control Scheduled to Begin on Friday, July 31
Please be advised that the Province of Manitoba has issued a ministerial order under The Environment Act to begin adult mosquito control in the RM of West St. Paul and other surrounding communities due to an increased risk of West Nile virus (WNV).
Recent surveillance has identified high numbers of adult Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, along with evidence of West Nile virus in mosquito populations. Combined with the recent hot weather, conditions have increased the risk of virus transmission to humans.
Weather permitting, adult mosquito control is scheduled to begin on the evening of Friday, July 31, 2026.
The West Nile Virus Mosquito Fogging Program schedule can be found at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/control.html
The Province has advised that spraying will be conducted using DeltaGard 20EW, a reduced-risk pesticide approved by Health Canada. When applied using ultra-low volume methods and according to label directions, DeltaGard 20EW is unlikely to pose a risk to human health.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
While residents are encouraged to continue enjoying outdoor activities, the following precautions are recommended to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and potential exposure to West Nile virus:
Limit outdoor activity between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Use an approved mosquito repellent.
Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pants.
Ensure door and window screens are in good repair.
Eliminate standing water around your property by regularly emptying containers such as bird baths, flower pots, buckets, and other items that collect water.
During Spraying
Although DeltaGard 20EW is considered a reduced-risk pesticide, residents who wish to minimize their exposure may choose to:
Stay indoors during and immediately after spraying.
Close windows and doors.
Turn off air conditioners or set them to exhaust.
Bring children's toys, clothing, and pet items indoors.
Cover swimming pools.
Wash outdoor toys, household items, and homegrown fruits and vegetables before use.
To date, no human cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in Manitoba in 2026. However, a single bite from an infected mosquito can transmit the virus, which in rare cases may cause serious illness.
For more information on West Nile virus in Manitoba, including surveillance data, prevention tips and symptoms of infection, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/health/wnv/index.html
To view the official Province of Manitoba West Nile virus Media Bulletin, visit: https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=74619&posted=2026-07-30
