LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – West Nile virus is a new mosquito-borne threat in Michigan, but it is not the only mosquito-borne disease.
As we approach Labor Day gatherings, experts want to educate you on the differences between these diseases. Mosquitoes are one of the deadliest animals in the world. These airborne pests are not only annoying, they also transmit several diseases.
“There are probably more than 200 species in the United States, and 60 to 70 of them are found in Michigan,” said entomologist Dr. Oliver Keller.
In 2024, five human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) and two human cases of Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) were confirmed in Michigan. Dr. Keller says there are several other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
“I think the typical diseases in Michigan are West Nile virus, Jamestown Canyon virus and Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (triple-E or EEE). And then there can be cases of malaria as well,” said Dr. Keller.
Matthew Bubb, deputy health officer with the Jackson County Health Department, says the best advice is to cover bare skin and use insect repellent because if you get bitten, there is no cure.
“It’s really difficult to know right away when someone is sick with one of these viruses, which can certainly be the case. Often these viruses start with fever, headache and fatigue,” Bubb said.
While Jamestown Canyon does not cause serious illness, Triple-E and West Nile can cause death. Malaria can also cause death, but more often affects young children. Dr. Keller says the mosquitoes have shown up earlier than expected this year due to warmer temperatures in Michigan, and that this trend may continue.
“Because this winter and spring are quite warm, some mosquitoes are coming out a little earlier than usual,” said Dr. Keller.
As the warm weather continues, families enjoy time at pools and lakes and use water in other ways to cool off. Getting rid of standing water reduces the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes and getting sick.
“Empty standing water sources outside in your yard once a week to prevent mosquitoes from breeding,” Dr. Keller said.
Michigan has experienced an outbreak of West Nile virus every summer since 2022. Diseases such as malaria, Jamestown Canyon, and Triple-E have been less common in the state.
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