ALERT: Dangerous Virus Spotted in Michigan County

Health officials in Ionia County are sounding an alarm after two wild birds tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). A crow and a bald eagle were found with the virus in Ionia County.

READ MORE: Michigan Confirms First Human Case Of West Nile

Mosquito season means more than just itchy bites, it can mean infection.

What Exactly Is West Nile Virus?

The West Nile Virus is carried by mosquitoes that feed on infected birds, before passing it along to other animals and humans. The virus has no vaccine and no direct treatment, which makes it important to watch for.

Symptoms and Risks to Humans

While most people who are infected never develop symptoms, the CDC does say that one in five cases may experience fever, headaches, muscle aches, nausea, or rash. Some rare cases may lead to neurological problems like meningitis or encephalitis.

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Michigan has already seen multiple cases of WNV this year in Michigan, including a couple of human infections in Ionia County a few weeks ago. Mosquitoes will remain active here in Michigan until the first hard frost.

How to Protect Yourself

The best forms of protection from mosquitoes are pretty simple. Using repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. When you can, cover up long sleeves and pants if you're outside at dawn or dusk.

If you have any standing water on your property, you should do your best to get rid of it or avoid it.

Michigan's DNR is also asking you to reach out to the Eyes in the Field Program if you ever see a sick or dead bird, as testing often helps track the virus before human cases rise.