Health

(September 27, 2024 2:29 PM ET)  From the Jackson County Health Department: As of September 27, 2024, we are sharing updated information about the West Nile Virus (WNV) in Jackson County, following our last update on August 23, 2024. Since then, there have been three human cases of WNV and one more bird testing positive. This brings the total to three humans and three birds (2 crows and 1 sandhill crane) testing positive for WNV. These are the first human cases of WNV reported in Jackson County since 2012. Statewide, there have been 21 human cases of mosquito-borne viruses as of September 20, 2024. This includes 19 cases of West Nile Virus and 2 cases of Jamestown Canyon Virus. West Nile Virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the continental U.S. It spreads to people through mosquito bites and usually occurs during mosquito season, which starts in summer and lasts through fall. There are no vaccines or medicines to treat West Nile Virus in people. Most people who get West Nile Virus don’t feel sick. However, about 1 in 5 people will get a fever and other symptoms. About 1 in 150 people may get seriously ill, and it…

(August 23, 2024 4:41 PM ET) The Jackson County Health Department has issued two alerts on West Nile Virus and Pertussis. West Nile Virus Alert As of August 23rd, 2024, the Jackson County Health Department has confirmed that two birds in the county tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). Fortunately, no human cases have been confirmed in Jackson County at this time, though there have been four human cases of West Nile virus or other arboviruses reported statewide in 2024. Mosquito pools are routinely monitored by the Jackson County Health Department and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) for WNV and other arboviruses. Arboviruses are viruses transmitted by mosquitoes and other insects. Alongside West Nile Virus, Michigan has detected other arboviruses this summer, including Jamestown Canyon Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). West Nile Virus Symptoms: Most people infected with West Nile Virus do not experience symptoms. However, about 1 in 5 may develop mild symptoms such as: - Fever - Headache - Body aches - Fatigue - Skin rash (occasionally) In rare cases, severe symptoms can occur, including: - High fever - Severe headache - Neck stiffness - Disorientation or confusion - Muscle weakness -…