Wayne County Reports 2 West Nile Cases
DETROIT (WWJ) - The Wayne County Health Department has confirmed two cases of West Nile virus.
The man and woman have already been treated and released from local hospitals. Their names have not been disclosed.
Experts say this season's hot weather has helped mosquitos breed, and ultimately spread the disease, a few weeks earlier than normal.
"With these new cases of West Nile virus in Wayne County, it is especially important to take precautionary measures against becoming infected," said Dr. Mouhanad Hammami, Acting Director/Health Officer for the department.
Hammami reminds those who spend time outdoors at night and in the early morning to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants. He said homeowners should check their yards for standing water. Stagnant water in flower pots, buckets, kiddie pools, and similar objects are also popular places for the insects to thrive.
You should also check that you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
Wayne County Public Health officials say symptoms of West Nile may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, headache, lack of appetite, muscle aches, nausea, rash, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes or vomiting.
Currently, there is no vaccine for humans against West Nile virus. Persons experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor right away.
In Oakland County, a 44-year-old man was hospitalized in July after showing symptoms and was at home recovering.
Last year, West Nile was responsible for 34 serious illnesses and two fatalities in Michigan.
(For more information, call the Wayne County West Nile virus Hotline at 734-727-7445 or visit this link.)
