Severe Disease Continues to Pose a Threat in Michigan

After getting bitten by mosquitos throughout the summer, you may want to be a little more careful.

The West Nile Virus is the #1 cause of mosquito-borne disease in the states.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shared that,

"It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. You can reduce your risk of WNV by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito bites."

When Is The Peak Season?

Michigan officials are warning residents that we have officially entered the peak season for the West Nile Virus.

There are always tests of mosquito pools to see if the virus is active. It will continue until it is too cold for mosquitoes to be out and about.

Current Status Of The West Nile Virus In Michigan

As of October 20th, this is the latest information on the West Nile outbreak in Michigan.

• Total # of Mosquito Pools Tested = 6,348
• Total # of Mosquitoes Tested = 119,187
• Positive Mosquito Pools = 134

Michigan's website shared that

"Nineteen Michigan residents from Bay (1), Berrien(1), Ingham (1), Isabella (1), Kent (2), Lenawee (1), Macomb (1), Oakland (1), Ontonagon (1), Ottawa (2), St. Clair (2), Sanilac (1), Tuscola (1), and Wayne (2) counties, and the City of Detroit (1) have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV)."

Besides humans, the virus is also affecting animals as well.

"One horse from Mecosta County and one deer from Livingston County have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV). Four mosquito pools from Bay (2), Barry (1), and Saginaw (1) counties have tested positive for EEEV."

You can see the full report here.