A horse from Van Buren County has tested positive for a virus that is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Health officials said they have identified the first mosquitos to test positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Michigan this year.

The Asian tiger mosquito is an aggressive biter and has the ability to spread many viruses.

Summer weather is finally here and that means one thing -- mosquitos are here too.

Officials have confirmed the discovery of the first mosquitoes carrying Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Michigan this year.

Whenever I step into my backyard I am inundated with mosquitoes.

Whenever I step into my backyard I am inundated with mosquitoes.

Aerial treatment to prevent the spread of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus has been completed with approximately 462,000 acres treated, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced Thursday. The treatment, which started on Sept. 16, was completed Wednesday, according to MDHHS. “Aerial treatment was important to protect the health and safety of Michiganders,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. A Montcalm County resident is suspected of having EEE following preliminary testing. Individuals younger than 15 and over 50 are at a high risk on contracting the virus, MDHHS said in a press release.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the second night of aerial treatment to combat the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) has resulted in more than 226,000 total acres being completed across the state. MDHHS confirmed Friday that one human case has been confirmed in Barry County. “Treatment is being conducted to protect the health and safety of Michiganders in the affected areas,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. Additionally, a deer in Allegan County has been diagnosed with EEE. Impacted counties are now Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Clare, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Livingston, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland.

With the second day of aerial treatment conducted for counties at risk of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced Thursday that six more cases were confirmed in horses, expanding Livingston County to the list. MDHHS said the new cases brings the total to 28 cases and 11 counties. The new EEE cases means expanding treatment in Jackson, Kent, Livingston and Montcalm counties, according to a press release from MDHHS. “These additional cases of EEE in horses underscores the importance of providing aerial treatment in the affected counties,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “Horse owners are not required to vaccinate their animals for EEE,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM in the press release.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced Wednesday the first night of aerial treatment is underway to combat the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus in Montcalm and Clare counties. Other counties -- including Kent, Newaygo, Oceana, Muskegon, Mecosta and Ionia counties -- may receive treatment Wednesday depending on the weather. While EEE has been confirmed in horses, a West Michigan resident is also suspected of having the mosquito-borne illness -- the first human known to contract EEE this year in Michigan. Michiganders are strongly urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites following the suspected EEE case along with nine confirmed cases of West Nile Virus. The outbreak at that time extended to 10 human cases and 46 animal cases.

Officials are set to conduct aerial mosquito treatment Wednesday night in 10 Michigan counties that are considered high risk for the deadly disease Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). State officials said they’re concerned about increasing cases of EEE in horses and the first suspected human case in a man from Barry County. Late summer and early autumn is the time of year when cases of West Nile Virus and EEE rise. In addition to concerns about EEE, there have also been nine confirmed cases of West Nile Virus -- including cases in Wayne and Oakland counties and Detroit. RELATED: Michigan confirms first 2020 human case of West Nile virus in Wayne County residentIn addition to wearing mosquito repellent, experts recommend getting rid of standing water around your property to remove potential breeding grounds and repairing any holes in window screens.

Cases of the mosquito-borne Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus are rising in Michigan. If you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.

A West Michigan resident is suspected of having the mosquito-borne illness Eastern Equine Encephalitis, the first of the year in Michigan. Michiganders are strongly urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites following the suspected EEE case along with nine confirmed cases of West Nile Virus. More than 25% of the country’s EEE cases last year were diagnosed in Michigan, MDHHS officials said. On Monday, Michigan announced aerial treatment for mosquitoes in 10 counties to help limit EEE risk. LAST YEAR: 6th fatality linked to mosquito-borne EEE reported in Michigan

Cases of the rare mosquito-borne virus Eastern Equine Encephalitis, known as EEE, are popping up in Michigan and other U.S. states.What is Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE)? EEE virus (EEEV) is one of a group of mosquito-transmitted viruses that can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). EEE cases occur primarily from late spring through early fall, but in subtropical endemic areas (e.g., the Gulf States), rare cases can occur in winter. According to Vector Disease Control International, eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is a zoonotic alphavirus and arbovirus, and was first recognized in horses in 1831 in Massachusetts. Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is maintained in a cycle between Culiseta melanura mosquitoes and avian hosts in freshwater hardwood swamps.

Officials are set to conduct aerial mosquito treatment in 10 Michigan counties that are considered high risk for the deadly disease Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed 22 cases of EEE in horses across Michigan. READ: Oakland County residents urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites amid confirmed EEE casesHealth officials have determined a targeted aerial treatment plan is necessary. This means mosquito control treatment will be required for those areas that are identified by the aerial treatment plan, with exception of federal properties and tribal lands. Aerial treatment is conducted by specialized aircraft, beginning in the early evening and continuing up until the following dawn.

DETROIT – The Oakland County Health Division and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services are reminding residents to take precautions from mosquito bites as cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been confirmed in two horses in Holly and Ortonville. MDHHS also recommends out of an abundance of caution that officials consider postponing, rescheduling or cancelling outdoor activities occurring at or after dusk, particularly activities that involve children. Read more: Michigan health department encourages officials to reschedule outdoor activities as EEE cases increase“These animal cases show that EEE is present in Oakland County,” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County. “Residents in all of our communities need to take simple steps to reduce the risk of serious disease from mosquito bites such as limiting exposure at outdoor activities and wearing mosquito repellent.”Follow these prevention tips:Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent. The public is urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites until the first hard frost of the year.

As of Thursday, Sept. 10, EEE has been confirmed in 19 horses in nine Michigan counties including Barry, Clare, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland. To date, no human cases have been identified. In 2019, there were 10 human cases of EEE in Michigan, which is equal to the total number of cases in the previous 10 years combined. Last year, Michigan accounted for 25 percent of the EEE cases nationally. You can also call the MDHHS hotline, which will now take calls for general questions about both COVID-19 and EEE at 888-535-6136.

Michigan health officials have confirmed the state’s first human case of West Nile virus for 2020 in a Wayne County resident. “Whether you’re talking about West Nile, EEE or any other mosquito-borne disease, people and animal owners should take every precaution necessary to prevent infection,” state veterinarian Nora Wineland said. MORE: MHSAA reinstates fall football, other high school sports in MichiganIn 2019, 12 human cases of West Nile virus were reported, including two deaths. Most people who become infected with West Nile virus won’t develop symptoms, but some could become sick three to 15 days after exposure. Here are some recommended steps to avoid West Nile virus, EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases:

LANSING, Mich. – Officials have confirmed the second case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) for 2020 in a 12-year-old horse from Montcalm County. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) State Veterinarian, Dr. Nora Wineland, confirmed the case. EEE is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes to both animals and people. Humans can also be infected, and symptoms in humans include sudden onset of fever, chills, and body and joint aches. EEE can develop into severe enephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and paralysis.

MICHIGAN – The first West Nile virus activity for Michigan in 2020 has been reported in a captive hawk from Lapeer County. Residents are reminded that the best way to protect themselves against West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis, is to prevent mosquito bites. Last year, West Nile virus (WNV) sickened 12 Michiganders, and 20 animals and birds. To date, there has not been EEE detected in Michigan, however this virus is typically detected later in the summer. Mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus may breed near people’s homes in storm drains, shallow ditches, retention ponds and unused pools.

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. Michigan health authorities are reporting a 6th fatality linked to Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Berrien County Health Department officials said Monday the victim was one of two people who contracted the mosquito borne virus. Cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis first appeared in West Michigan at the end of August. The virus has been reported in Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo and Van Buren counties. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says the risk from the virus continues because there hasnt been a sustained period of freezing temperatures.

WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. - A small portion of Webster and Northfield Townships in northern Washtenaw County may be sprayed Saturday, Oct. 5, as a safeguard measure against mosquitoes that carry Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or EEE. It is being carried out in parts of the state with confirmed human or animal cases of EEE to decrease mosquitoes that can carry the potentially deadly virus. As of Oct. 5, Washtenaw County has no human or animal cases of EEE. The area targeted for spraying in Washtenaw County is within a 2.5 mile radius of a confirmed animal case in neighboring Livingston County. Details about the EEE outbreak in Michigan and the situation in Washtenaw County are available at Michigan.gov/eee.

With no treatment or vaccine available, the only protection against Zika is to avoid travel to areas with an active infestation. If you do travel to a country where Zika is present, the CDCLANSING, Mich. - A fourth person in Michigan has died of the rare Eastern Equine Encephalitis mosquito virus, raising the death toll to eleven nationwide. Calhoun County officials received confirmation Wednesday that a Battle Creek resident died from EEE complications. The illness can cause brain swelling preceded by flu-like symptoms, including a high fever, chills and nausea. In addition to the Michigan deaths, three people have died in Massachusetts, three in Connecticut and one person has died in Rhode Island.

Eastern equine encephalitis is a disease caused by a virus spread from infected mosquitos that can cause inflammation of the brain. EEE virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. It takes 4 to 10 days after the bite from an infected mosquito to develop symptoms of EEE. The virus is built up in a particular area through an amplification cycle: Infected mosquitos feed on birds, infecting them in the process. Read more: What You Need to Know About Aerial SprayingHow to protect yourself from EEEApply insect repellents.

Eastern equine encephalitis is a disease caused by a virus spread from infected mosquitos that can cause inflammation of the brain. EEE virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. It takes 4 to 10 days after the bite from an infected mosquito to develop symptoms of EEE. The virus is built up in a particular area through an amplification cycle: Infected mosquitos feed on birds, infecting them in the process. Read more: What You Need to Know About Aerial SprayingHow to protect yourself from EEEApply insect repellents.

Eastern equine encephalitis is a disease caused by a virus spread from infected mosquitos that can cause inflammation of the brain. EEE virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. It takes 4 to 10 days after the bite from an infected mosquito to develop symptoms of EEE. The virus is built up in a particular area through an amplification cycle: Infected mosquitos feed on birds, infecting them in the process. Read more: What You Need to Know About Aerial SprayingHow to protect yourself from EEEApply insect repellents.

All of these counties have cases of EEE in people, animals or both. How spraying will happenAerial spraying is conducted by low-flying aircraft, beginning in the early evening and continuing up until 4:30 a.m. the next morning, in areas of concern. "The continuing number of cases in both people and animals indicate an ongoing risk for EEE exposure. While it is not necessary to bring animals indoors during spraying, concerned pet owners can bring animals inside during spraying. Additional information about aerial spraying and other health-related information is available in a Frequently Asked Questions document at Michigan.gov/EEE.

Spraying will occur in the following 14 counties: Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lapeer, Montcalm, Newaygo, St. Joseph and Van Buren. All of these counties have cases of EEE in people, animals or both. "The continuing number of cases in both people and animals indicate an ongoing risk for EEE exposure. While it is not necessary to bring animals indoors during spraying, concerned pet owners can bring animals inside during spraying. Additional information about aerial spraying and other health-related information is available in a Frequently Asked Questions document at Michigan.gov/EEE.

All of these counties have cases of EEE in people, animals or both. How spraying will happenAerial spraying is conducted by low-flying aircraft, beginning in the early evening and continuing up until 4:30 a.m. the next morning, in areas of concern. "The continuing number of cases in both people and animals indicate an ongoing risk for EEE exposure. While it is not necessary to bring animals indoors during spraying, concerned pet owners can bring animals inside during spraying. Additional information about aerial spraying and other health-related information is available in a Frequently Asked Questions document at Michigan.gov/EEE.

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories confirmed another case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a human Friday. Eight cases of the mosquito-borne illness has been confirmed in people living in Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo and Van Buren counties. Horse, deer casesAccording to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, in addition to the human cases, as of Sept. 16 nine cases of EEE in horses had been confirmed in Barry, Kalamazoo, Lapeer, and St. Joseph counties. About West Nile VirusWest Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus. The virus is then spread to humans through the bite of the infected mosquito.

LANSING, Mich. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories confirmed another case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a human Friday. Eight cases of the mosquito-borne illness has been confirmed in people living in Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo and Van Buren counties. Horse, deer casesAccording to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, in addition to the human cases, as of Sept. 16 nine cases of EEE in horses had been confirmed in Barry, Kalamazoo, Lapeer, and St. Joseph counties. About West Nile VirusWest Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus. The virus is then spread to humans through the bite of the infected mosquito.

With seven case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) confirmed in Michigan, three of which are deadly cases, health officials are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites this fall. County health officials said mosquito-borne diseases, such as EEE and WNV, are seasonal and flare up in the warm summer months and continue into the fall. "Protect yourself from mosquito bites until the first hard frost of the year," said Leigh-Anne Stafford,health officer for Oakland County. The health division offers these mosquito bite prevention tips:Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent. The virus is then spread to humans through the bite of the infected mosquito.

With seven cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) confirmed in Michigan, three of which are deadly cases, health officials are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites this fall. County health officials said mosquito-borne diseases, such as EEE and WNV, are seasonal and flare up in the warm summer months and continue into the fall. "Protect yourself from mosquito bites until the first hard frost of the year," said Leigh-Anne Stafford,health officer for Oakland County. The health division offers these mosquito bite prevention tips:Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent. The virus is then spread to humans through the bite of the infected mosquito.

(CNN) - Four additional cases of Eastern equine encephalitis, including two deaths, have been confirmed in Southwest Michigan, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said Tuesday. Michigan has confirmed seven total EEE cases, including three deaths, officials said. Typically, only 5 to 10 human EEE cases are reported every year, but about 30% of all cases result in death, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition to the Michigan cases, two more people in Rhode Island have been diagnosed with EEE, the Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said Tuesday. In Massachusetts, there have been eight human EEE cases, the Massachusetts Department of Health said Friday.

LANSING, Mich. - Michigan health officials are putting out a warning as it investigates three possible human cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis. According to the CDC, the rare but deadly mosquito-borne virus can cause brain infections and swelling. READ: 4th person in Massachusetts contracts deadly-mosquito virusThe Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says the three cases under investigation are in Kalamazoo and Berrien counties. The department also says it has confirmed a case of California encephalitis virus in a Genesee County resident. In Monday's press release, the department said six horses in Barry, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties contracted the virus and have died.

Two cases of EEE have been confirmed in horses in Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties. Two cases of EEE have been confirmed in horses in Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties. There is an EEE vaccine available for horses, but not for people. These equine deaths indicate that EEE virus activity is increasing and provides warning that human cases could also occur, said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health. Lastly, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recommends that residents protect their horses by: Talking to their veterinarian about vaccinating horses against the disease.

Mosquito virus warning to those traveling to Florida after Eastern Equine Encephalitis was found in chickens in Orange Co. Copyright 2019 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.