MACOMB COUNTY (WWJ) — Health officials in Macomb County are reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites this summer and into the fall after West Nile Virus was detected in the county.
The virus was recently detected for the first time this summer in two samplings of mosquitoes gathered in Macomb County, though officials did not say where the samplings were gathered.
So far, there have been no confirmed cases of human WNV in Macomb County, but one person has been confirmed to have the virus in Livingston County. It is Michigan’s first human case in 2024.
Health officials told WWJ’s Ryan Wrecker the Livingston County resident contracted West Nile while traveling outside the state, though it was not specified where they traveled.
“This discovery by our surveillance team is important because it lets us know that this season’s mosquitoes are now carrying the virus – which could spread to humans,” said Andrew Cox, director/health officer of Macomb County Health and Community Services. “We encourage everyone to take steps to prevent mosquito bites to the greatest extent possible.”
Data released by state health officials late last week shows 10 cases of arboviruses -- including West Nile and Jamestown Canyon Virus -- have been reported in birds. The viruses have been found in 29 mosquito pools across the state.
Macomb County residents and all Michiganders are being reminded to take the following measures to prevent mosquito bites:
• Use an insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin on clothing and exposed skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends the use of oil of lemon eucalyptus as a more natural repellant. Manufacturer’s directions should be closely followed when using these products.
• Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Residents should limit outdoor activities and wear pants and long sleeves, along with using repellent during these hours.
• People who work in outdoor occupations or like to spend time outdoors are also at increased risk for WNV infection from mosquito bites.
• Areas of standing water, such as buckets, flowerpots, barrels, and children’s pools should be kept empty when not being used to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. Change the water regularly in pet dishes and bird baths and keep gutters free of standing water.
• Window and door screens should be in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes and buildings.
West Nile Virus is a disease transmitted to humans through infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes become infected if they bite a bird infected with the virus. It cannot be transmitted human to human.
Many people infected with the virus will not have any symptoms or will experience a mild illness such as body aches, fever, and headache. Some people will develop more severe symptoms that could include encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). Those at greatest risk to develop a severe illness include people 50 years and older, those with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, hypertension, and people who have received an organ transplant.
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