GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The Kent County Health Department says West Nile Virus has been detected in the county for the first time this year.
The pool of tested mosquitoes was collected on July 26th in traps set near the border for Gaines and Byron townships. The county says it received confirmation of the positive result Wednesday.
Health Department epidemiologist Paul Bellamy says, ""Now, more than ever, it is time to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites as much as possible."
In rare cases, the disease can progress to a severe illness that can affect the central nervous system, and potentially cause death.
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