KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Health officials are looking into more suspected cases of a deadly mosquito-borne virus in Southwest Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says two people from Kalamazoo and Berrien counties are now confirmed cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), and they are investigating 4 other cases in Kalamazoo County and 1 in Berrien County.
Dr. William Nettleton says EEE can cause a severe brain infection and has a 33% fatality rate in humans. Symptoms may start with a fever, chills, and body aches, but can lead to even more serious issues like seizures and can result in death.
Earlier, health officials confirmed that six horses have died from the illness in Barry, Kalamazoo, and St. Joseph counties, and that two deer have also been infected in Barry and Cass counties.
Citizens are being reminded to protect themselves against the mosquitoes with the following tips.
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Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved product to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
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Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
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Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
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Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs.
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Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.
