Canada West Nile Stats on the Rise

 
July 28, 2003

WINNIPEG -- Manitoba health officials are not reading too much into a sharp increase in West Nile statistics this year.

As of last week, 82 dead birds had tested positive this summer -- compared to 15 at the same time last year.

The head of the provincial West Nile program says improved testing is at least part of the reason.

Kathy Mestery says dead birds are being tested more quickly after they are reported.

She says that allows for more accurate test results.

Mestery also credits increased public participation this year -- more people are reporting finding dead birds.

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