MI Resident Dies From West Nile Virus, First In 2025

KENT COUNTY, MI — A Kent County resident has died from the West Nile virus, health officials said Thursday.

Health officials said the person who died lived roughly 3,000 feet from an area where the virus was found in mosquitoes. It is the county's first death from the West Nile virus since May 2024.

"Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of this individual," said Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at KCHD. "This tragic outcome is a reminder that mosquitoes in our area are active and capable of spreading serious illness. Prevention remains our best protection."

The case was one of three reported human cases of West Nile virus in Michigan this year. Human cases were also found in Oakland and Livingston counties.

The West Nile have been found this year in Bay, Kalamazoo, Kent, Macomb, Midland, Saginaw, Tuscola and Wayne counties. In addition, the Jamestown Canyon virus has been found in mosquitos collected from Bay, Kalamazoo, Macomb, Ottawa, Saginaw and Washtenaw counties.

Health experts say mosquito season peaks in August and into September. So far this year, there have been 320 West Nile cases across 33 states, including Michigan, according to the CDC.

The virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Some people who get the virus may develop an illness may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache and body aches; occasionally, a skin rash and swollen lymph glands may be noticed. These symptoms may last a few days or as long as several weeks.

People who are older than 50 or have immunocompromised conditions can become seriously ill. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for the infection, according to federal health officials.

Here are recommendations for avoiding exposure:

• Use insect repellent with 10-35% DEET, and always follow label directions
• Wear long sleeves and pants to limit skin exposure
• Avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
• Eliminate standing water around your home—refresh bird baths, wading pools, pet bowls, and empty small containers regularly
• Keep screens and gutters in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home