IONIA COUNY, Mich. -- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is notifying the Ionia County Health Department that two birds in the county have tested positive for West Nile virus.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms for the virus include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea and a rash.
There is no vaccine, medication or treatment to prevent West Nile Virus however there are ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes. The health department recommends wearing insect repellent while spending time outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to limit exposure, empty standing water around your home to limit mosquito breeding and use nets or fans over outdoor seating areas.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says sick or dead birds may be a sign of WNV in a community. Residents can report a sick or dead bird to the DNR by using the 'Eyes in the Field' reporting system on their website.
The Ionia County Health Department can be reached Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (616) 527-5341.