West Nile Virus Detected in Oakland County Birds and Mosquitoes

Health officials in Oakland County have confirmed the presence of the West Nile virus (WNV) in multiple birds and a mosquito pool, as reported on Thursday. The Oakland County Health Division identified WNV in three birds and a mosquito pool during testing conducted in 2024. Leigh-Anne Stafford, the director of Health & Human Services, emphasized the importance of avoiding mosquito bites to prevent the spread of diseases like WNV. In a related case, a man from Livingston County contracted WNV while traveling outside Michigan and fell ill in June. WNV, along with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), is a mosquito-borne illness that cannot be transmitted through horse-to-horse or horse-to-human contact. While most individuals infected with WNV may not show symptoms, those over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of developing severe or life-threatening conditions. To protect against mosquito-borne viruses, health officials recommend using insect repellents registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These repellents, which contain active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness. Additionally, residents are advised to treat standing water that cannot be removed, such as retention ponds, with mosquito larvicides to help control mosquito populations. As the summer progresses, officials urge the community to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of mosquito bites and potential virus transmission.