West Nile Virus Creeps Into More of Michigan—Macomb Now on the List

There’s no reason to freak out, but West Nile Virus has been detected in Macomb County for the first time this summer. It’s not the first case in Michigan, though, as a few other counties have already seen activity this year.

According to WDIV and the Macomb County Health Department, a recent mosquito sample tested positive for the virus. While no human cases have been reported, officials say this should be a wake-up call to start taking mosquito precautions seriously.

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Andrew Cox, director/health officer of Macomb County Health and Community Services:

This discovery by our surveillance team is important because it lets us know that this season’s mosquitoes are now carrying the virus, which could spread to humans. We encourage everyone to take steps to prevent mosquito bites to the greatest extent possible.

What Is West Nile Virus?

West Nile spreads through mosquito bites. Most people who get it will not feel a thing, or maybe just deal with a little fever, headache, or body aches.

But for some people, especially older adults or anyone with health issues like diabetes, cancer, or kidney problems, it can get a lot more serious. In rare cases, it can cause swelling in the brain or spinal cord, and that could mean a trip to the hospital.

This is Macomb County’s first confirmed case of the virus in mosquitoes this summer, but it is not the first time West Nile has shown up in Michigan this year. Other counties like Saginaw and Bay have already seen activity, so it is safe to say the virus is making its rounds across the state.