GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The first cases of West Nile Virus have been found in Kent County for 2020.
The Kent County Health Department says that 3 mosquitoes trapped in 2 zip codes have tested positive. The bugs were found in 49504 and 49525, the West and Northeast sides of Grand Rapids.
“Discovering these cases in mosquitoes should serve as a reminder to everyone who lives in West Michigan that West Nile Virus season is upon us,” says Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at the health department. “It is important for people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites as much as possible.”
With the 4th of July holiday weekend just days away, health officials worry that people will spend more time outside, putting them at a higher risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito.
To reduce your risk of catching West Nile, the health department recommends using mosquito repellant that has DEET, weaing long-sleeve clothing that is light in color, and staying indoors during dusk, when the bugs are most active.
