GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The Kent County Health Department has identified the presence of West Nile Virus in three mosquito samples in the county. The mosquitos were collected in Grand Rapids, Walker and Plainfield Township. This is the first detection for the 2025 season.
"These detections are a reminder that local mosquitoes are active and capable of spreading illness," said Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at KCHD. "By taking simple precautions like applying insect repellent and eliminating standing water around your home, residents can significantly reduce their risk while still enjoying the outdoors."
West Nile Virus can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who get infected with the virus experience no symptoms. One in five people infected develop mild, flu-like illness with a fever, headache, body aches or a rash. Rare cases of WNV can lead to serious neurological complications.
Health officials say the best way to protect yourself from mosquitoes is to follow these steps:
- Use insect repellent with 10-35% DEET
- Wear long sleeve and pants to limit skin exposure
- Eliminate standing water around your home
- Keep screens and gutters in good repairs to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home
The KCHD team will continue to monitor local mosquitoes for WNV, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Jamestown Canyon virus, La Crosse virus and St. Louis Encephalitis through late September.
###