Infestation Shuts Down Warren School

WARREN (WWJ) - A school in Warren will be closed for a few days due to an infestation.

Ben Ross Academy was shut down after bird mites and spider mites were found. According to school officials, a bird built a nest in the school's ceiling and the mites spread throughout the ventilation system.

Principal Monica Martin told WWJ Newsradio 950 the school's closure is only a "precautionary measure" -- there are no health risks.

A note posted to parents on the school's website reads, in part, "Bird mites are tiny insects that inhabit bird's nest. They are harmless to humans. Spider mites are harmless insects that can be found in gardens. While harmless these insects are abundant and populate rapidly."

The school which sits on Cole street near 12 mile and Van Dyke was alerted to the problem by a teacher who noticed the little critters.

Martin said they had a fumigation company locate the nest, fumigate the school and then clean up the dead bugs and birds.

The school is expected to reopen on Wednesday.

Get more information at this link.