Cheboygan County District Health Department No. 4 (DHD4) was recently informed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that a Canadian Goose carrying West Nile Virus (WNV) was identified in Cheboygan County.
The goose was one of six found dead in the water in October, although only one was collected.
People with WNV are infected by mosquitos and most show no signs or symptoms of the disease. In rare cases it can cause life threatening illness, especially in very young children, the elderly, or people with a compromised immune system. About 1 in 150 people who are infected can develop a very serious condition called encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.
DHD4 would like to remind people to protect themselves from mosquito bites, even during cooler months, to prevent the spread of diseases such as WNV.
“Mosquito season runs until November in Michigan, so even when it starts getting cooler outside there will still be a risk of getting bitten,” says DHD4 Health Officer, Denise Bryan. “West Nile Virus is preventable. Our community has many beautiful places for recreational activities. Remember to protect yourself while outdoors!”
Residents can stay healthy by using simple, effective strategies to protect themselves:
The US Environmental Protection Agency suggests using an insect repellent with one of the following active ingredients; DEET, Picaridin, Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), Para-Menthane-Diol (PMD) or 2-undecanone. Follow the instructions on the product label and reapply as directed.
Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires, or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs.
There has been a recent uptick in identified birds with similar diseases in Northern Michigan. Residents who encounter a sick bird or mammal are encouraged to report these animals on the DNR’s website or by calling/texting 518-336-5030.
