First West Nile Virus Activity Confirmed For Year In Michigan

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Michigan’s first West Nile virus activity of the year is in three counties. Mosquitoes in Saginaw and Oakland counties have been confirmed to be carrying the virus, along with one Canada goose in Kalamazoo County. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says there are no human cases as yet. Symptoms of West Nile virus include confusion, a high fever, muscle weakness, and a severe headache, with neurological illnesses like meningitis and encephalitis being more serious possible complications. The state had 104 serious illnesses and nine deaths from West Nile virus. Health officials say the best way to prevent infection is to take precautions like using insect repellent with DEET, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and long pants when possible outdoors, and getting rid of standing water around your home to prevent mosquitoes from having a breeding area.