New Cases of Mosquito-borne Diseases in Michigan
On Monday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed one new case of a mosquito-borne disease in Michigan with three other possible cases being investigated.
A case of California encephalitis virus has been confirmed in a Genesee County resident.
Symptoms of California encephalitis virus include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and lethargy.
Three cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are suspected in residents from Kalamazoo and Berrien counties. As of Aug. 26, six cases of EEE have been confirmed in horses in Barry, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties. None of the horses were vaccinated against EEE and all animals have died. There is an EEE vaccine available for horses, but not for people. Also, two deer in Barry and Cass counties have been diagnosed with EEE.
Symptoms of EEE include the sudden onset of fever, chills, body and joint aches.
Both diseases can develop into severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures and paralysis. Permanent brain damage, coma and death may also occur in some cases.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services offers advice on how to prevent mosquito bites:
- Apply insect repellents that contain DEET.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Apply insect repellent to clothing.
- Maintain window and door screens.
- Empty water from mosquito breeding sites such as buckets, unused kiddie pools or old tires.
- Use nets or fans at outdoor eating areas.