GRAND RAPIDS - West Nile Virus is showing up in Mosquitoes in two counties on the east side of the state. The Kent County Health Department issued an alert Monday afternoon encouraging people to take extra steps to avoid being bitten by the pests.
WNV was found in Saginaw County and Washtenaw County which includes Ann Arbor.
"We know the virus is circulating in mosquitoes and birds here in Michigan, so now is the time to act," said Cathy Raevsky, the Administrative Health Officer for the Kent County Health Department. "Take a few minutes before you and your family go outdoors to make sure you are protected."
The Kent County Health Department recommends using insect repellent when outdoors. Apply repellent to clothing and exposed skin, and follow directions on the product label. Don't apply repellent under clothing, or on cuts, wounds or irritated skin. You should not apply repellent around the eyes or mouth, and if using spray, apply spray to your hands first, and then apply to face.
Health experts say repellent should not be used on infants under 2 months old at all. KCHD recommends putting netting over the infant's stroller.
For more information, the Michigan West Nile Virus website includes more about transmission, symptoms and prevention.