KENT COUNTY, Mich. — The first case of neuroinvasive West Nile virus has been detected in Kent County, according to the health department.
The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) Mosquito Surveillance team previously detected West Nile virus in mosquitoes at a pool in northwest Grand Rapids back on Aug. 21. This testing was done as part of the team's annual tracking.
On Wednesday, the KCHD announced that one person was hospitalized with West Nile virus. This is the first case detected in Kent County this year.
Officials determined the person who was infected lives near where the mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus were found. It is believed the person was infected locally.
Health officials are now urging Michiganders to take precautions until the first frost.
“This confirmed case of West Nile virus emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures against mosquitoes," said Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at KCHD. "It confirms that mosquitoes in our area are actively carrying the virus, which poses a risk to humans. Everyone must take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection.”
The KCHD released these tips to best protect yourself and your family:
- Wear a mosquito repellent that contains 10 to 35 percent DEET (read and follow product directions)
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce skin exposure.
- Stay indoors during dawn and disk to reduce your risk of being bitten.
- Remove or refresh water in bird baths, children’s wading pools, pet water bowls, and other small containers that collect water in your yard.
- Ensure window screens and roof gutters are in good repair.
Only about 20% of people infected with West Nile virus will notice symptoms, according to the health department. The most common symptoms are headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.
West Nile virus was also detected in mosquitoes in Ottawa County this year.
To learn more, click here.
