West Nile Virus detected in Midland Co. - WNEM TV 5
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Officials in Midland County have confirmed the West Nile Virus is active.
Last week, Midland County Mosquito Control tested a few dead birds, and tests came back positive with the birds infected with the virus.
Mosquito control officials are now focusing in on mosquitos to eradicate and try to stop the virus from spreading.
"We have increased the treatment for mosquito larvae and adult mosquitos and we are increasing our surveillance, keep looking for the evidence for this virus, and see where it is and we'll keep after it until we get it knocked down," said Tom Wilmot, the director for Midland County Mosquito Control.
A mosquito bites infected birds and then that same mosquito bites a human, which is how humans can get West Nile. Symptoms for somebody who is infected with West Nile vary. They may not be affected at all, or they could have neurological problems or possibly even die.
"The greatest level up here in Mid-Michigan is here in Midland County right now, but if it continues to be a warm summer, it can continue to develop, so throughout the state of Michigan, you have to keep your eyes open," Wilmot said.
Wilmot said to pay attention for dead birds and make sure to protect yourself from being bit by mosquitos by wearing repellant or going inside when the bugs are bad outside. And if you see dead birds, mosquito control agencies want to hear from you.
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