City of Winnipeg to Begin Targeted Fogging Program for Mosquito Control

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City of Winnipeg to Begin Targeted Fogging Program for Mosquito Control

August 8, 2024

In response to the high numbers of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, the City of Winnipeg will commence a targeted fogging program tomorrow, Friday, August 9, at 9:30 p.m. This action follows a fogging order issued by the Province of Manitoba under The Environment Act, which mandates municipalities to fog when the risk of West Nile Virus (WNV) transmission is high.

The fogging program will target several Insect Management Areas, including:

Area 22: Bridgwater Lakes
Area 23: Tuxedo Industrial, Whyte Ridge, Wilkes South
Area 24: Brockville, Linden Ridge, Lindenwoods, West Fort Garry Industrial
Area 51: Riverbend, Rosser – Old Kildonan

Residents can view the daily program schedule and register for public service announcements online. The upcoming schedule will be released at least eight hours in advance. The fogging will be carried out using DeltaGard 20EW®, a reduced-risk pesticide approved by Health Canada.

West Nile Virus Program

The West Nile Virus Program is managed by the provincial government. Weekly average trap counts of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes by regional health authority are available on the Province of Manitoba’s West Nile virus website.

Preventive Measures

To protect against West Nile Virus, residents are advised to:

Reduce mosquito habitats around their homes
Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn
Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting long-sleeved tops and pants
Apply insect repellent according to Health Canada guidelines
Ensure door and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes

Fogging Precautions

Individuals can minimize their exposure during fogging by:

Staying indoors during and immediately after spraying
Closing all doors and windows
Avoiding trucks while spraying is underway
Turning off fans and air conditioners or setting them to exhaust
Removing clothes and children’s toys from outdoor areas
Covering swimming pool surfaces
Washing any household items or toys left outside before use
Ensuring homegrown fruits and vegetables are washed before eating

For more information about West Nile virus, including prevention, symptoms, and weekly average trap counts, visit the Province of Manitoba’s West Nile virus website or contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.