The Macomb County Health Department advises residents to take precautions after the first confirmed case of West Nile Virus has been identified in the county since 2013. West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. There are now a total of three cases in Michigan – in Monroe, Ottawa and Macomb Counties
Macomb County Health Officer Bill Ridella encourages residents to protect themselves against West Nile Virus by taking the following steps to prevent mosquito bites:
Apply insect repellent when outdoors. Repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus and paramethane-diol provide longer-lasting protection and should be used according to label instructions.
When weather permits, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors.
Avoid being outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active.
Keep mosquitos outside by installing or repairing screens, using air conditioning and reducing mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water near your home.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus may include flu-like symptoms with severe headache, fever, fatigue, weakness and/or rash. Most people are at a low risk for serious illness. People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe West Nile Virus symptoms.
More information on West Nile Virus and mosquito control can be found on the Macomb County Health Department website HERE