West Nile virus confirmed in 2 Wayne County residents

Man, woman confirmed to have contracted the West Nile virus in Wayne County

WAYNE COUNTY, Mich. – The Wayne County Department of Public Health said Thursday, two cases of West Nile virus (WNV) are confirmed in Wayne County.

Both individuals, a man and woman were hospitalized with WNV meningitis.

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They have since been treated and discharged.

"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, Wayne County Department of Public Health.  

The unseasonably hot summer has contributed to an earlier development in mosquito populations which typically peak in late August, he added.

West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes.

The majority of individuals infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms.

However, some patients develop symptoms that may include a fever, rash, headache, joint pain, muscle aches, GI symptoms, fatigue and weakness.

Currently, there is no vaccine for humans against West Nile.

In July Oakland County confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus in Michigan for 2012.

Health officials said they expects to see continued WNV activity throughout the summer.

The best way to avoid WNV:

Prevention is the best way to avoid the virus.

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.

Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.

Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

Get rid of mosquito breeding sites:

Emptying standing water from containers, flower pots, buckets, barrels or children's wading pools and tire swings.

Any one experiencing symptoms should see their health care provider.

For more information, call the Wayne County West Nile virus Hotline at 734.727.7445, or click HERE.Â