Kalamazoo County has confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus for 2025, bringing the statewide total to 18. Health officials noted that mosquito samples in the county tested positive for the virus last month. Michigan has also reported 51 animal cases this year, as per FOX 17.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 31 human cases of West Nile virus in 2024, up from 24 in 2023 and 13 in 2022, including the first death this year in Kent County involving a person with underlying health conditions, according to WOOD TV. Health officials are urging preventative measures, with the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department issuing advisories. Interim Health Officer Deb Lenz stated, “We strongly encourage residents to take precautions such as using insect repellent with DEET and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors during the peak mosquito-biting hours, which are from dusk to dawn,” as reported by WZZM 13.
Most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but about 20% may develop flu-like illness, and around 1 in 150 can face severe neurological issues. There is no vaccine, so health officials advise preventing mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing, using repellents with at least 10% DEET, removing standing water, and installing window and door screens, as noted by WOOD TV. Mosquito activity is usually highest in the evening. In addition to human cases, the virus has been found in animals, including two birds in Ionia County. Mosquito surveillance in Kalamazoo County will continue through the end of September.
