First Human Cases Of West Nile Confirmed In Metro Detroit

SOUTHEASTERN MI — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said on Friday they have detected the West Nile virus in residents in Oakland and Macomb Counties.

The department also said that mosquitos collected in Kent, Macomb, Midland, Oakland and Wayne counties, as well as the City of Detroit and Bay City have tested positive for the West Nile and Jamestown Canyon virus.

"It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness, so take extra care during peak mosquito-biting hours, which are dusk and dawn," Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health said.

"As we head into the holiday weekend and beyond, we urge Michiganders to take precautions such as using insect repellant and wearing long-sleeve shirts and long pants when outdoors during those time periods," she added.

Most people who get the West Nile virus have no clinical symptoms of illness, but some may develop a high fever, confusion, muscle weakness and a severe headache three to 15 days after a bite from an infected mosquito, the department said in the news release.

Michigan Health Officials are also encouraging people to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, as well as removing any standing water.