Here Is How Michigan Has Been Combatting Deadly EEE Virus

MICHIGAN — To help combat the deadly mosquito-borne virus Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), more than 430,700 acres have been treated and a sixth night of aerial treatment has occurred, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

As of Oct. 4, EEE has been confirmed in nine people, with four fatalities. Cases are in Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo and Van Buren counties. In addition, cases have occurred in 34 animals from 15 counties: Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Genesee, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lapeer, Livingston, Montcalm, Newaygo, St. Joseph and Van Buren. The mosquitos that spread EEE are still active and were caught in traps set Oct. 1 in southwest Michigan.

The state has opted for aerial treatment to combat the virus. The most recent schedule included Fort Custer Training Center, a portion of which crosses into Kalamazoo County. The Center has approved aerial treatment, state officials said.

Areas completed to date include Area 1-1 in Allegan County, Area 2-1 in Barry County, Area 3-1 in Berrien County, Areas 4-1 and 4-2 in Calhoun County, Areas 5-1 and 5-2 in Cass County, Areas 6-1 and 6-2 in Jackson County, Area 8-1 in Kent County, Areas 10-2 and 10-3 in Montcalm County, Area 11-1 in Newaygo County, Areas 12-1, 12-2 and 12-3 in St. Joseph County, 13-1 in Van Buren County and Area 14-1 in Washtenaw County and Area 15-1 in Livingston. Area 1-2 in Allegan County and Area 13-3 in Van Buren County have been partially completed and are on the schedule.

The areas slated for treatment tonight are on the Aerial Treatment Zones Map and include:

• Area 1-2 in Allegan County.
• Areas 4-3 and 4-4 in Calhoun County.
• Area 8-2 in Kent County.
• Area 9-1 in Lapeer County.
• Areas 10-1 in Montcalm County.
• Areas 13-2 and 13-3 in Van Buren County.

More information is available at Michigan.gov/EEE.