Residents in Macomb County are being urged to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites after West Nile Virus was detected for the first time this summer in the area.
Two separate sampling of mosquitoes were gathered in Macomb County and determined to be infected. There have been no confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus in Michigan.
Macomb County has released the following measures that will help protect you:
• Use an insect repellent that contains DEET or picardin on clothing and exposed skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends the use of oil of lemon eucalyptus as a more natural repellant. Manufacturer’s directions should be closely followed when using these products.
• Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Residents should limit outdoor activities and wear pants and long sleeves, along with using repellent during these hours.
• Areas of standing water, such as buckets, flower pots, barrels, and children’s pools should be kept empty when not being used to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. Change the water regularly in pet dishes and bird baths and keep gutters free of standing water.
• Window and door screens should be in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes and buildings.
West Nile Virus is transmitted through infected mosquitoes. The virus can cause symptoms such as body aches, fever and headache. Severe symptoms could include encephalitis or meningitis, which could be deadly.
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