Berrien County confirms human case of West Nile Virus

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. — Health department officials confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus in Berrien County. According to the county health department, an adult woman became sick in late July and was later confirmed to have the virus.

Most people who get the virus show no symptoms, but experts say those who do become ill will start showing symptoms between three and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Since mosquitoes will remain active in southern Michigan throughout the fall, officials are now warning residents to stay aware of their surroundings and continue to protect themselves against mosquito bites to reduce their risk of contracting West Nile.

Officials are urging residents to remove all standing water on their property to lessen the chance of mosquito breeding. Bug spray made with DEET is also recommended.