Van Buren/Cass District Health Department detect Eastern Equine Encephalitis in mosquitos and animals

CASS COUNTY, Mich. -- The Van Buren/Cass District Health Department announced Van Buren and Cass Counties have shown the presence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV) in animals and mosquitos.

Health officials encourage residents to take precautionary measures after the recent identification of EEE and WNV.

EEE and WNV are spread by mosquitos and have the potential to cause serious illness, severe mental deterioration, and/or death.

The diseases are only spread to humans through a bite from an infected mosquito.

EEE and WNV are not spread person-to-person, person to animal, or animal to person.

No positive human cases have been detected in the counties.

EEE was detected in two horses in Van Buren, one horse in Cass County, and a detection of WNV in an animal in Cass County.

Due to the importance of prevention, since there is no specific treatment for EEE or WNV, Dr. Larry Wile, Medical Director of VBCDHD, said “Though the risk of contracting these diseases for residents is low, it is not zero. While EEE and WNV pose significant health risks, there are effective steps we can all take to reduce the chances of infection. By remaining vigilant and following these guidelines, our community can protect itself from this serious virus."

To protect against mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellents and protective clothing.
• Use EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Consider avoiding or limiting outdoor activities between dusk and dawn.
• Ensure windows and doors are fitted with proper screens to keep mosquitoes out.
• Regularly empty containers that collect water, such as flowerpots, birdbaths, and children’s pools.
• Clean out gutters to prevent water accumulation.
• Frequently change water in pet dishes.

To safeguard livestock and pets:

• Vaccinate horses against EEE and WNV. Use protective measures like insect repellent.
• Consider stabling animals during peak mosquito activity.
• Limit pets’ outdoor activities during dawn and dusk.
• Report dead birds to local authorities, as they may indicate the presence of EEE or WNV in the area.

The VBCDHD is actively monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as necessary. For local health information and resources, visit their website.