A fatal case of West Nile Virus has been confirmed in Kent County, Michigan, marking the first human death from the disease in the county this year. The victim, a resident of Kent County, contracted the mosquito-borne illness and died from it, according to health officials.
The health department has found mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus in various parts of the county, including areas close to where the individual lived. The exact location of the person’s residence remains undisclosed.
Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at Kent County Health Department, expressed condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized the need for prevention measures. “Mosquitoes are active and capable of spreading serious illness,” he said. “Prevention is our best protection.”
West Nile Virus is a top disease carried by mosquitoes, with most people developing no symptoms, while others may experience flu-like symptoms or severe illness with impacts to the central nervous system. There is currently no vaccine available for the disease.
To protect themselves, experts recommend using insect repellent with at least 10% DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants, staying indoors during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk), and draining any standing water near their homes.
Source: https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/kent/person-in-kent-county-dies-from-west-nile-virus