(HOLLAND, MI.) – West Nile virus has been found in a mosquito in south central Ottawa County during regular summer mosquito monitoring by the Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH). No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Ottawa County so far this year.
West Nile virus was also recently detected in Kent County. These findings are a reminder for residents to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.
Most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms. Those who do get sick may experience fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus. Serious illness is rare but can occur, especially in older adults or people with certain health conditions.
Prevent mosquito bites by:
- Using an Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent when you are outside. Find the repellent that is right for you.
- Wearing long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Treating clothing and outdoor gear with insect repellent.
- Remove standing water around your home—mosquitoes breed in even small amounts of water. Check bird baths, pet bowls, children’s wading pools, and any containers that collect rain.
For more information, visit miottawa.org/outdoorhealth and cdc.gov/west–nile-virus.
The Ottawa County Department of Public Health works with our community to help assure conditions that promote and protect health for all. OCDPH’s vision is healthy people. Follow OCDPH on Facebook @miOttawaHealth or Instagram @miOCDPH. Report a health concern at miottawa.org/concern.
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