The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has confirmed the state’s first human case of West Nile virus for 2025, detected in a resident of Livingston County. No additional details about the patient have been released. Notably, the first human case in 2024 was also reported in the same county.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s Chief Medical Executive, emphasized:“Just one bite from an infected mosquito can cause serious illness. We recommend using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors during mosquito activity hours, especially from dusk until dawn.”
According to health officials, mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been detected in Bay, Kalamazoo, Kent, Macomb, Midland, Saginaw, Tuscola, and Wayne counties. Additionally, mosquitoes carrying the John Cunningham virus were found in Bay, Kalamazoo, Macomb, Ottawa, Saginaw, and Washtenaw counties.
West Nile Virus Symptoms
Most infected individuals show no symptoms or experience only mild illness, which may include fever, muscle weakness, confusion, and severe headaches. In some cases, the disease can progress to encephalitis (brain inflammation) and swelling. People over the age of 50 are at the highest risk for severe or life-threatening symptoms.
Prevention Tips for Mosquito-Borne Viruses
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Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
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Avoid applying repellent to children’s hands to prevent contact with eyes or mouth.
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Remove mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water around your home.
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Empty and clean containers that can hold water weekly, including tires, bird baths, buckets, and children’s toys.
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Clear clogged gutters.
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Treat undrainable standing water with mosquito larvicide.
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Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants.
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Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn.
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Ensure window and door screens are intact to prevent mosquito entry.