MDHHS confirms first 2024 human case of West Nile virus

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus of the year.

The mosquito-borne virus was confirmed in a person from Livingston County.

So far, 29 mosquito pools across the state have tested positive for common mosquito-borne viruses that can be transmitted to humans and animals. Of the 29, 17 have tested positive for West Nile virus, including pools in Kent and Ottawa counties. The other 12 contained Jamestown Canyon virus, including pools in Kent and Calhoun counties.

According to the Kent County Health Department , approximately 80% of people infected with West Nile virus will not notice any symptoms, but they typically include body aches, joint pain and fatigue. Most WNV patients recover completely, but about 1 in 150 develop a severe illness that impacts the central nervous system. Recovery can take months, but sometimes the damage is permanent and can even be deadly.

Last year, 24 Michigan residents tested positive for West Nile virus and six tested positive for JCV.

Brendan Earl, the KCHD’s supervising sanitarian, said that the virus was found in late June, much earlier in the summer than in previous years. According to News 8 records , the virus wasn’t reported in Kent County in 2023 until early August.

“(That indicates) a need for heightened vigilance and preventative measures,” Earl said in a statement . “It lets us know that this season’s mosquitoes are now carrying the virus, which could spread to humans. It is crucial for people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites to reduce the risk of infection.”

Since there is no vaccine or cure for West Nile virus, the KCHD says preventative measures are the best way to stay safe.

The department recommends wearing a mosquito repellent that contains at least 10% DEET, wearing light-colored clothing and staying indoors around dusk to avoid mosquitoes’ most active time of day. The department also recommends making sure all window screens are properly sealed and removing or refreshing any standing water on your property that can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

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