West Nile Virus in two mid-Michigan counties

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — West Nile Virus has been found in both Jackson and Eaton Counties, health officials say.

Jackson County Health Officials say three humans and one additional bird have now tested positive for the virus. On August 23, health officials reported two birds had tested positive for the virus, but no humans. Two crows and a sandhill crane tested positive for the virus.

In Eaton County, health officials announced Friday three birds had tested positive for the virus. Two of the birds were crows, the the third bird was a red tail hawk.

The Eaton-Barry County Health Department says “symptoms of illness include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.”

There is no vaccine for the virus.

But officials from Eaton-Barry County Health Department say there are ways to prevent infection with the mosquito-borne virus.

“To lower your risk of mosquito bites, use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus,” officials wrote in a news release Friday. “When spending time outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves, pants, and socks for extra protection. Keep doors and windows closed, or make sure screens are in place to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Additionally, eliminate standing water around your home, such as in buckets or bird baths, as mosquitoes can breed in these areas.”

Health officials report there are 19 human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported this year in the state of Michigan.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.