2nd case of West Nile virus confirmed, this time in West Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — New data from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services shows a sharp rise in West Nile virus activity in Michigan, including a second case in a human.

The latest weekly data report shows a person from Berrien County has been diagnosed with a WNV infection. The first human case was announced in late July in Livingston County.

Activity appears to be spiking. As of last week , MDHHS reported 61 positive mosquito pools across the state: 49 with West Nile virus and 12 with Jamestown Canyon virus. One week later, that number is up to 99, with an additional 38 WNV-positive pools.

The agency also noted two more positive cases of WNV in animals, now up to 22.

Last Friday, the Calhoun County Public Health Department confirmed its first WNV-positive mosquito pool. Kent County has 14 and Ottawa County has one. The rest are on the eastern half of the state.

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. Since there is no vaccine or cure for WNV, 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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