Deer Tests Positive for EEE in Fenton

The EEE virus  (Eastern Equine Encephalitis) is embedding itself a little more in Mid-Michigan with a deer now testing positive in Fenton Township.

The Genesee County Health Department states the deer tested positive for the mosquito carried virus on September 9th. Since then the township has done additional mosquito spraying targeted specifically within a two-mile radius of where the deer that tested positive was found.

Just recently the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced that they were holding off on offering aerial insecticide spraying in the Genesee County area. The plan would change if any additional animal cases or human cases of EEE are found in the county.

In the meantime, residents are still advised to take precautions when engaging in any activities outdoors where they may be susceptible to mosquito bites. Precautions include insect repellent, wearing long sleeves, and avoiding areas that are prone to mosquitos  such as the woods and areas with standing water.

EEE symptoms can start out as fever, chills, and joint and muscle pain and feel much like the flu. Serious complications can arise quickly so be sure to seek medical treatment if symptoms worsen. Michigan joins Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island with the highest number of EEE cases this year.