MONROE COUNTY, Mich. – Residents are urged to protect themselves against mosquito bites as the West Nile virus has been detected in Monroe County.
The Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) sent out a reminder for residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites during the remaining weeks of summer and into the early fall season.
Officials say the West Nile Virus (WNV) was recently detected for the first time this summer in a dead wild mallard.
There has only been one reported human case of WNV in Michigan, and there are no reported human cases in Monroe County.
Officials say the WNV is transmitted to people through bites from infected mosquitoes.
About one in five individuals infected develop symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, and fatigue.
Officials say WNV can lead to severe neurological complications and death, especially among adults 50 years and older and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Residents should consult with their provider if they believe they may have become infected with the virus.
The best way to prevent mosquito-borne disease is to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites by:
- Applying insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET or other EPA-approved products to exposed skin or clothing.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
- Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
- Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitos outside.
- Emptying water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires, and other water-holding containers where mosquitos can lay eggs.
According to the weekly Michigan Arbovirus Surveillance Report, as of July 26, 17 WNV-positive mosquito pools, 10 WNV-positive animals, and one human case of WNV have been reported in Michigan.