WEST OLIVE, Mich. -- One day after the Kent County Health Department confirmed two detections of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes, the Ottawa County Health Department is reporting one in the south-central part of that county.
The detection was confirmed during regular mosquito monitoring. No human cases have been reported in either county so far this year.
Some mosquitoes trapped in the 49504 zip code in Grand Rapids and the 49519 zip code in Wyoming recently tested positive for West Nile Virus in Kent County, according to the KCHD.
To avoid being bitten by an infected mosquito, the health departments recommend you use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and remove standing water from around your home, among other precautions.
The Ottawa County Health Department says most people with West Nile Virus show no symptoms, such as fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. The OCHD said there is no vaccine or specific treatment for WNV. Serious illness is rare but can develop in people with serious health conditions or older adults.
The OCHD provides the following guidance ...
Prevent mosquito bites by:
- Using an Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent when you are outside. Find the repellent that is right for you.
- Wearing long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Treating clothing and outdoor gear with insect repellent.
- Remove standing water around your home—mosquitoes breed in even small amounts of water. Check bird baths, pet bowls, children's wading pools, and any containers that collect rain.
For more information, visit miottawa.org/outdoorhealth and cdc.gov/west-nile-virus.
The Ottawa County Department of Public Health works with our community to help assure conditions that promote and protect health for all. OCDPH’s vision is healthy people. Follow OCDPH on Facebook @miOttawaHealth or Instagram @miOCDPH. Report a health concern at miottawa.org/concern.
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