Michigan’s health department has recently confirmed the first case of West Nile Virus in a person in the state.
The Livingston County, home to Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan, has received confirmation from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services that a resident has tested positive for a mosquito-borne illness.
Michigan has now experienced a human case of West Nile Virus for at least 5 consecutive years, according to the latest test results.
Currently, the disease-carrying mosquitoes have been found in 13 counties in the state, including Kent and Ottawa counties. However, Livingston County has not detected any positive cases of infected mosquitoes. The origin of the mosquito that bit the person with the disease remains unknown.
According to MDHHS, West Nile Virus does not have a vaccine yet. The most effective way to avoid contracting the virus is to take preventive measures such as wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing, using repellent that contains at least 10 percent DEET, staying indoors during dusk, and eliminating any stagnant water on your property to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Approximately 80% of individuals who contract West Nile Virus will not experience any symptoms. However, the remaining 20% may develop a range of symptoms including headaches, body aches, joint pains, and fatigue. In severe cases, approximately 1 in 150 patients may experience long-lasting effects on the central nervous system that can be life-changing. Although rare, West Nile Virus has the potential to be fatal.
