First mosquito-borne illness of the season detected in Michigan
The first mosquito–borne virus of the summer has been detected in Michigan.
Jamestown Canyon Virus, or JCV, was recently detected in mosquitoes collected in Bay, Oakland, and Saginaw.
“Jamestown Canyon is a virus that we’re starting to detect more frequently here in Michigan,” says Dr. Kim Signs of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “It’s being recognized more often as a cause for illnesses such as meningitis and encephalitis.”
Other mosquito–borne illnesses in the Upper Midwest include the West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, the rarest and deadliest of the three.
Last year 39 Michiganders became ill from mosquito–borne viruses. 2 of those 39 died, both from EEE.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommends taking normal precautions to avoid mosquito bites and the diseases they can carry.
Wear EPA-approved insect repellent and avoid leaving standing water near your home.
For more information and recommended precautions, visit Michigan.gov/EmergingDiseases.