2 Hospitalized In MI For West Nile Virus: Health Officials

OTTAWA COUNTY, MI — Two people in Ottawa County were in the hospital Thursday morning after testing positive for West Nile virus, according to the Ottawa County Department of Public Health.

Officials said the two patients came back positive for the virus after they were bitten by an infected mosquito in West Michigan. Officials also said neither person recently traveled.

The health department said the two cases are the highest reported number of cases of West Nile virus in Ottawa County since 2018.

Officials warned that the West Nile virus can lead to serious illness and even death in every 1 out of 150 infections, even though most infected people don't feel sick or experience mild symptoms such as a fever, headache and rash.

There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat West Nile virus in people. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications are commonly used to help manage symptoms, but they are not a cure.

The West Nile virus is usually transmitted to people after an infected mosquito bite. Cases of the virus occur when mosquitos are most active in the summer and early fall months. People who develop more serious illnesses may need to be hospitalized to manage symptoms.

Since mosquitoes stay active until the first hard freeze of the year, officials encouraged communities to use precautions during outdoor activities, such as bonfires and sporting events, to protect themselves from mosquito bites, particularly as warmer weather continues in the region.