Health Officials Warn Against Mosquito-Born Illnesses

The death of a 48-year-old local man that was linked to West Nile virus has county officials in Macomb and Oakland warning people to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

"Prevention is the key to reducing mosquito bites and lowering the risk of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses, especially in the evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active," Kathy Forzley, manager and health officer of Oakland County Health Division said in a written release Friday.

The warning came on the heels of that was confirmed Thursday to be the first probable human death from West Nile virus this year.

The man, whose hometown and name wasn't released, was hospitalized earlier this month after showing symptoms of the virus. Tests to confirm that he died from the West Nile virus are pending from the Michigan Department of Community Health's Bureau of Laboratories.

"West Nile Virus is identified in Michigan every summer and can cause severe illness. We want to be sure that citizens take seriously the risk for WNV infection," Dean Sienko, state interim chief medical executive said in a release. "The months of August and September are when most human cases of West Nile Virus occur in Michigan."

Mosquitoes become infected with WNV and other diseases by biting a bird that carries the virus. The virus is then spread to humans through the bite of the infected mosquito.

Most people infected with mosquito-borne diseases either have no symptoms or experience a mild illness, such as fever, headache and body aches. However, in some individuals, mostly the elderly, a much more serious disease affecting the brain tissue can develop.

County officials said heavy rainfall and high temperatures this summer have contributed to an increased number of mosquitoes. Despite the higher propensity for mosquitoes, funds to eradicate the pests have declined in recent years.

In 2009, the city of Troy received more than $30,000 for controlling West Nile virus. The county contributed $18,035 in 2010. The city's 2011 and 2012 budgets didn't include any county funds for West Nile virus control.

Oakland County health officials recommend reducing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases by:

• Eliminating mosquito breeding sites around your home. Empty standing water from: flower pots, pet bowls, clogged rain gutters, swimming pool covers, old tires, buckets, barrels, cans and similar items where mosquitoes can lay eggs. For a list of other nonchemical mosquito control suggestions visit the State of Michigan Emerging Disease Issues website at: michigan.gov. Select “West Nile Virus,” then “Mosquito Control” and finally, “Homeowner Mosquito Control.”

• Using an insect repellent that contains an active ingredient approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions, especially when using on or around children. Visit the EPA website at epa.gov for more information on insect repellents. 

Nonchemical ideas to prevent mosquitoes from biting include:

• Avoid shaded and wooded areas where mosquitoes may be present.
• Wear long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when outdoors.
• Limit outdoor activity between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use a fan while sitting outside – as long as the fan is blowing air around mosquitoes won't be biting you.
• Maintain window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.