4 Mosquito-borne Diseases to Watch Out for in Michigan

Mosquitoes are a commonplace, if not annoying, part of life in Michigan, but don’t let these pesky insects fool you. In addition to ruining picnics and romantic dinners on the beach everywhere, mosquitoes in Michigan can carry some harmful and even deadly diseases. These are a few mosquito-borne diseases to watch out for in southeastern Michigan.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus (WNV) has been seen in Michigan since the summer of 2002. The virus has been especially prevalent in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties in Southeastern Lower Michigan and Kent county in Western Lower Michigan. While WNV affects the central nervous system, many people who are bit by a mosquito carrying WNV will not experience symptoms. Others develop a less severe reaction known as West Nile fever, but in a small number of cases, WNV can lead to West Nile encephalitis, West Nile meningitis, and death. According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, the best way to protect yourself from West Nile Virus is to prevent and protect against mosquitoes in the first place.

St. Louis Encephalitis

St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE) is another mosquito-borne illness that does not cause symptoms for many who have been infected. Patients in about 1% of cases of SLE develop some generally flu-like symptoms with older adults reporting more severe symptoms. In an even smaller number of cases, more serious side effects including seizures and coma may occur. SLE has only occasionally been spotted in Michigan with the last case reported in 2010 and mosquito prevention continues to be the best way to reduce risk.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis

Michigan state officials have confirmed an outbreak of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) as of October 21, 2020, with 39 animals in 17 counties having been infected. A handful of human cases have also been recorded. As the name suggests, EEE mainly affects horses and a vaccine is available to protect animals, however a vaccine is not available for humans. EEE has an extremely high fatality rate in both humans and horses which is why the Michigan government completed a mandatory aerial mosquito intervention in ten Lower Michigan counties include Livingston and Oakland counties in fall 2020. 

Dengue

Dengue, the virus that causes Dengue Fever, is a disease often found in tropical climates which may make it a surprise find on the list of Michigan mosquito-borne illnesses. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Disease Mapper, there were 13 cases of Dengue in 2019. Cases of Dengue have been recorded in Wayne, Washtenaw, and other counties and have all been imported, but it is worth mentioning as in-state transmission is theoretically possible.

In general, the risk of contracting a mosquito-borne illness in Michigan is fairly low and can be greatly reduced with preventative measures. Homeowners should ensure all windows have secure, well-fitting screens and make sure to remove potential mosquito breeding grounds. It’s also important to use mosquito repellants and proper clothing when spending time in areas with higher mosquito activity.

Want to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with next-level mosquito prevention?  Sign up for 2021 mosquito treatment sprays from Mosquito One today!

201130