West Nile virus found in Oakland County mosquitoes

Mosquitoes in southeast Oakland County have tested positive for the West Nile virus, health officials said Tuesday.

The first mosquito pool that tested positive for the virus was found through a trap; like previous years, “the late summer months have shown an increase in mosquitoes testing positive” for the virus, the Oakland County Health Division said in a statement.

“Although no human cases of the virus have been confirmed in Oakland County this year, residents are urged to be cautious when spending time outdoors,” said Kathy Forzley, Oakland County Health Division manager/health officer.

“The most effective way to protect yourself and your family against West Nile virus is to take precautions against mosquito bites.”

The mosquito-borne virus can cause inflammation and brain swelling, health officials said. Mosquitoes are infected by biting a bird that carries the virus.

Most people infected “have either no symptoms or experience a mild illness such as fever, headache and body aches,” county health officials said. “However, in some individuals, particularly the elderly, a much more serious disease affecting the brain tissue can develop.”

Tips to prevent mosquito bites include:

■Spraying clothing and exposed skin with insect repellent.

■Minimizing activities where mosquitoes are present, such as shaded areas.

■Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors.

■Maintaining window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of buildings.

■Eliminating standing water in yards. Empty water from mosquito breeding sites such as flower pots, pet bowls, clogged rain gutters, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels and similar items.

To report a single dead bird, go to www.michigandnr.com/diseasedwildlifereporting.

To report three or more dead birds, call (517) 336-5030.