West Nile Virus Found In Oakland County: What To Know

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — The West Nile virus has been found in three birds and the first pool of mosquitoes captured this year in the county for testing, according to county health officials.

As of Thursday, health officials said there have been no human cases of the virus in the county.

Officials did not specifically say where in Oakland County the virus was found. A group of mosquitos in nearby Macomb County also tested positive for the virus in late July.

There was a human case reported earlier this month in nearby Livingston County. It was Michigan's first human case of the virus since 2019.

"These test results mean that West Nile Virus is present in Oakland County and the best way to prevent getting diseases spread by mosquitoes is to avoid being bitten," Oakland County’s director of Health & Human Services Leigh-Anne Stafford said. "As we enjoy outdoor events in summer and fall, it’s important to protect ourselves against mosquito bites."

The virus is spread to humans through the bite of the 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:

• Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Empty any standing water and monitor your yard, clearing watering cans, clogged gutters or discarded containers.
• Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and hats outside.
• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent according to package directions.