The Marquette County Overall health Division (MCHD) has not too long ago been created conscious that two hawks in Marquette County, Michigan have tested optimistic for West Nile Virus (WNV). This getting suggests that neighborhood mosquitoes in Marquette County, as properly as all through the U.P., are carrying the virus. In light of this details, residents are strongly advised to take precautions to shield themselves from mosquito bites and lower the threat of contracting WNV.

Symptoms of WNV ordinarily seem among 3 to 15 days following getting bitten by an infected mosquito. These symptoms could consist of fever, headache, physique aches, and from time to time a skin rash or swollen glands. In extreme situations, the virus can lead to encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain and can be fatal or trigger permanent harm. The MCHD recommends that any one experiencing these symptoms ought to get in touch with their healthcare provider.

To keep healthier and lessen the threat of mosquito bites, residents are encouraged to adhere to these preventative measures:

1. Apply insect repellents containing DEET, or a further EPA-authorized item, to exposed skin or clothes. It is critical to usually adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines when employing these items.
two. Put on extended-sleeved shirts and extended pants when spending time outdoors, and apply insect repellent to clothes to additional avoid bites.
three. Sustain effectively fitted window and door screens to retain mosquitoes out of the household.
four. Take away any standing water from possible mosquito breeding websites about the house. This involves emptying buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires, and comparable regions exactly where mosquitoes could lay their eggs.
five. Look at employing nets and/or fans to make a barrier against mosquitoes in outside consuming regions.

It is critical to note that the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses remains till late fall, when nighttime temperatures regularly drop beneath freezing. For a lot more detailed details about mosquito-borne ailments, residents can stop by Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.