MDHHS: 3 more human cases of West Nile virus, another horse contracts EEE

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services has confirmed three more positive human cases of West Nile virus over the past week.

The new cases have been spotted in Delta, Genesee and Macomb counties. The first human case of the summer was confirmed in late July in Livingston County. The second case was diagnosed last week in Berrien County.

The latest data from the MDHHS shows more activity. As of Friday, 115 mosquito testing pools across the state have shown signs of arboviruses — 102 testing positive for West Nile virus and 13 test positive for Jamestown Canyon virus. That number has nearly doubled over the last two weeks. The MDHHS reported only 61 positive pools on Aug. 9.

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.

Cases are also picking up among animals. MDHHS has now confirmed 26 cases of West Nile virus in animals —25 in birds and one horse in Eaton County.

The agency has also confirmed a second case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in a horse in Van Buren County. The first was reported on Aug. 7 .

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development confirmed the horse in the first case was not vaccinated against EEE, a mosquito-borne illness that is almost always fatal in horses. The agency has not reported the vaccination status of the second horse.

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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