4 human cases of West Nile Virus confirmed in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – A new case of West Nile Virus has popped up in Oakland County. It’s the fourth case detected in a human so far this year.
The four cases were out of Oakland, Sanilac, Macomb, and Livingston Counties.
The disease is carried by mosquitos and transferred through their bites.
While Vector-Borne Disease Epidemiologist Rachel Burkholder said this isn’t out of the ordinary for Michigan, it’s a potentially serious disease, and something you do not want to get.

“Seizures, paralysis, meningitis, and encephalitis,” said Burkholder.
Those are just some of the potential complications from the West Nile Virus and the only way to protect yourself is to avoid getting bitten.
To steer clear of bites, wear long clothing, use EPA approved bug spray and get rid of standing water around your home.
“This would be things like bird baths, the kiddie pool that you haven’t moved in three weeks, old tires, or any other object that can hold standing water. Tip it about once a week,” said Burkholder.