More than 600 mosquito pools had been tested in Michigan during 2023 as of June 30. Reports from the Barry-Eaton District Health Department discuss recent findings of two mosquito pools. One is in Bay County, and it has tested positive for EEE, while the other is in Saginaw County. The latter has tested positive for the Jamestown Canyon virus.
The Barry-Eaton District Health Department urges citizens to be aware of the symptoms, despite the fact that no humans nor animals have been found to be infected with the disease.
EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, with a 33% fatality rate in people who become ill, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive for MDHHS, noted.
A possible infection with EEE can be identified by the following symptoms:
- Chills
- Sudden development of fever
- Aches and pains throughout the body and joints, which can lead to a severe form of encephalitis
According to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, acute encephalitis can lead to a variety of symptoms, including headaches, tremors, seizures, confusion, and even paralysis.
And here is the shocking thing that happened. According to the specialists who examined the case, horses are also susceptible to EEE, and those horses that do become ill have a 90% chance of passing away as a result of the illness. There has been no evidence to suggest that the illness may be passed from horse to human or vice versa.
Residents of Barry County are encouraged to take safety precautions since Eastern Equine Encephalitis was detected in mosquitos that were recently collected.
Precautionary Measures
You may protect yourself and your family from illnesses caused by mosquito bites by learning how to take a few easy precautions, which are outlined below:
- During the height of the mosquito season, plan any outside activities so that they take place between the hours of night and morning; additionally, wear clothing with long sleeves
- Always be sure to have bug repellents with you when you go outside
- Eliminate pools of water that have accumulated in the regions surrounding your property
- Fix any broken or missing screens in your windows and doors
If you have been bitten by a mosquito and are having any odd symptoms, you should go and see your primary care physician as soon as possible.
