FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 14, 2020

CONTACT: Bob Wheaton, 517-241-2112, wheatonb@michigan.gov

Michigan confirms first human mosquito-borne virus of 2020

Ottawa County resident infected with Jamestown Canyon virus

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Ottawa County Health Department today confirmed the state’s first human infection with a mosquito-borne virus for 2020 as a county resident tested positive for Jamestown Canyon virus.

Jamestown Canyon virus is spread to people through bites from infected mosquitoes. Most cases occur from late spring through mid-fall. Illness can develop from a few days to two weeks following a mosquito bite. While most people do not become ill, initial symptoms can include fever, headache and fatigue. In rare cases, it can cause severe disease, including infection of the brain – encephalitis – or the lining around the brain and spinal cord – meningitis.

MDHHS is releasing no further information about the resident who tested positive for confidentiality reasons.

“During the warm weather months in Michigan, there is always a risk of viruses spread by mosquitoes, including but not limited to West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health. “This is an important reminder to stay vigilant and protect against mosquito bites throughout the summer and into the fall”.

Michigan reported its first two cases of Jamestown Canyon virus in 2018 in patients from Oakland and Menominee counties. In 2019, one case was detected in a person from Cass County.

While the virus is found throughout much of the U.S., reports have been increasing in the upper Midwest. This likely reflects increased awareness and testing, but may also be due to an increase in the presence of the virus in the environment.

The virus can be spread by many types of mosquitoes that become infected when they feed on deer or other animals that have the virus in their blood. These infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other animals or people through bites.

Residents can stay healthy by using simple, effective strategies to protect themselves and their families. The following steps are recommended to avoid Jamestown Canyon virus and other mosquito-borne diseases:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other EPA-approved products to exposed skin or clothing. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
• Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs.

For more information and surveillance activity about West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne viruses, visit www.michigan.gov/westnilevirus.

With the recent discovery of West Nile virus (WNV) in a captive hawk from Lapeer County, this signals that the virus is circulating again in the state of Michigan; and its presence underscores the need to take all the necessary steps to protect equids from this disease.

Typically, WNV circulates between birds and mosquitoes, but mosquitoes can also transmit the disease to people and animals (like horses). In Michigan, the disease is typically a concern every summer to early fall. It is also important to note that WNV is most commonly spread through bites from an infected mosquito and not through contact with an animal that might have the virus.

To combat the spread of this disease, owners of horses can:

• Talk to their veterinarian about vaccinating their horses against WNV. There is a highly effective, safe vaccine available to protect horses from WNV.
• House their horses in a barn under fans (as mosquitos are not strong flyers) during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn.
• Use an insect repellant on the animals that is approved for the species.
• Eliminate standing water on the property—i.e., fill in puddles, repair eaves, and change the water in buckets and bowls at least once a day.
• Contact a veterinarian if a horse shows signs of the illness: mild fever, lack of appetite, lethargy, weakness, stumbling, tremors, and a droopy lip and/or head tilt. Please also note that the disease is reportable to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Cases can be reported by completing and submitting a Reportable Disease Form to mireportableanimal@michigan.gov.

For context, in 2019, there was one reported, confirmed case of WNV in Michigan in a horse from Lapeer County. So far in the state of Michigan this year, there have been no confirmed cases of WNV in equids. However, the season for this disease is just beginning.

Overall, MDARD anticipates receiving reports of WNV cases this year and recommends vaccinating horses and taking all precautions in order to ensure the health of these animals.

MDARD has confirmed a new case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a horse from Gladwin County. This is the first case of EEE in Gladwin County for 2020. The horse was unvaccinated and eventually died from the disease.

Overall, in 2020, there have been 37 cases of the disease being found in equids from the following 16 counties: Baraga (1), Barry (1), Calhoun (1), Clare (5), Gladwin (1), Ionia (2), Isabella (1), Jackson (2), Kent (4), Livingston (2), Mecosta (1), Menominee (1), Montcalm (8), Newaygo (2), Oakland (4) and Tuscola (1).

Since the mosquitoes that carry the disease will remain a concern until there has been at least one hard freeze where temperatures fall below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours, it is essential for horse owners to ensure that their animals are currently vaccinated against the disease.

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or Michigan.gov/EEE.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed two additional cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in horses from Kent and Menominee counties.

While Kent County already had reports of the disease, this is the first case discovered in Menominee County. Also, in both cases, the horses were unvaccinated and were euthanized due to the severity of their disease.

Overall, there have been 36 cases of EEE being found in equids this year from the following 15 counties: Baraga (1), Barry (1), Calhoun (1), Clare (5), Ionia (2), Isabella (1), Jackson (2), Kent (4), Livingston (2), Mecosta (1), Menominee (1), Montcalm (8), Newaygo (2), Oakland (4) and Tuscola (1).

Since the mosquitoes that carry the disease will remain a concern until there has been at least one hard freeze where temperatures fall below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours, it is vital for horse owners to keep their animals currently vaccinated against the disease.

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or Michigan.gov/EEE.

For immediate release: October 2, 2020

MDARD: Jessy Sielski, 517-331-1151 | MDHHS: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112

First Case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Discovered in the Upper Peninsula for 2020

Second human case of EEE confirmed in Montcalm County resident

LANSING, Mich.—Today, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is confirming the discovery of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a horse from Baraga County. Not only is this the first case of EEE being found in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for 2020, but it is also the first report of EEE ever being found in Baraga County. This case indicates that the mosquitoes carrying EEE continue to be active, and that all Michigan residents still need to take precautions to protect their animals as well as themselves.

EEE is a dangerous, zoonotic mosquito-borne disease that is typically seen in the state from late summer to early fall. Last year, Michigan experienced 50 cases of EEE in animals and a record of 10 human cases. So far this year, two human cases of EEE and 36 animal cases have been confirmed across 15 Michigan counties. The human cases of EEE have been confirmed in residents of Barry and Montcalm counties, and the Montcalm County resident has died.

“Our sympathies to the family and friends of this Michigan resident,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). “EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, which is why we made the decision to conduct aerial treatment last month. We continue to urge Michiganders to take precautions against mosquitoes."

The latest reports of the disease involve horses found in Livingston and Baraga counties. To see the presence of EEE so far northward in the Upper Peninsula is not uncommon. Last year, two cases of the disease were reported in animals from Houghton and Ontonagon counties. Also, while the Baraga County case is the first case of the disease in the Upper Peninsula this year, Wisconsin has had a number of EEE cases within their northern counties, including Forest County, which borders the Upper Peninsula.

“Given the trends of EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases over the last two years, owners of horses and other animals across the entire state need to make vaccines and mosquito mitigation practices routine,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM. “The mortality rate of EEE in horses can be as high as 90 percent, so it’s unlikely you’ll get a second chance to vaccinate an animal after it becomes infected. And, even though mosquito season is coming to a close as the weather gets colder, it is important for owners to work with their veterinarian to ensure proper timing of vaccination.”

While the state of Michigan has been experiencing some cooler temperatures this week, the mosquitoes that carry EEE will remain alive and active until there has been at least one hard freeze where the temperatures fall below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours. Therefore, it is still necessary to eliminate standing water on one’s property, bring animals into a barn from dusk to dawn to avoid peak mosquito activity, vaccinate horses against the disease, and contact a veterinarian if an animal displays any sign of illness.

“Living in the Upper Peninsula, it’s easy to feel insulated from some of the issues that happen south of the Mackinac Bridge,” said MDARD Director Gary McDowell, a resident of Chippewa County in the Upper Peninsula. “EEE is carried primarily between mosquitoes and bird reservoir hosts, so there are no natural geographic barriers that will protect animals or people. Every Michigan resident needs to be cognizant of this and take all necessary precautions.”

In humans, signs of EEE include the sudden onset of fever, chills, and body and joint aches. EEE infection can develop into severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and paralysis. Permanent brain damage, coma, and death may also occur in some cases.

In early September, the increasing number of EEE cases being discovered in equine prompted MDHHS to initiate aerial treatments to mitigate the spread of the disease and help protect human health. This resulted in 462,000 acres treated. MDHHS will continue to monitor the situation and treatment zones could be added if new cases are found and aerial treatment would be effective to reducing risk of exposure.

Applying insect repellants, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and following other precautions can help Michigan residents avoid mosquito bites and stay healthy.

For more information about EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases, visit https://www.Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

MDARD has confirmed two new animal cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in equids in the counties of Tuscola and Oakland. Both animals were unvaccinated. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently announced its completion of aerial treatment against mosquitoes. Although MDHHS continues to assess the risk of EEE, it doesn’t currently have plans to conduct further treatment.

While Oakland County already had reports of the disease, this is the first case discovered in Tuscola County. Overall, in 2020, MDARD has confirmed 32 equid cases of EEE across 13 counties: Barry (1), Calhoun (1), Clare (5), Ionia (2), Isabella (1), Jackson (2), Kent (3), Livingston (1), Mecosta (1), Montcalm (8), Newaygo (2), Oakland (4) and Tuscola (1).

Since the mosquitoes that carry EEE will remain a threat until there has been at least two hard frosts, it is still vital for horse owners to vaccinate their animals against the disease and to take other precautions to safeguard their animals.

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or Michigan.gov/EEE.

A pony has been confirmed to have EEE in Oakland County, bringing the total to 30 cases of EEE in equine. Additionally, a second deer in Ionia County has been diagnosed with EEE, bringing the total to two cases of EEE in deer. Impacted counties are Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Clare, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Livingston, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland. A Barry County resident has also been confirmed with EEE.

Please see the news release from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or Michigan.gov/EEE.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced today that aerial treatment for mosquitos will resume on Monday, September 21, due to nighttime temperatures predicted to be below 50 degrees F over the weekend. Additionally, new cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) have been confirmed in a Calhoun County horse and an Allegan County deer, bringing the total number of EEE cases in animals for 2020 to 30. A Barry County resident has also been confirmed to have the disease.

Despite these cooler temperatures, Michiganders still need to take precautions to protect themselves and their animals. It is crucial for horse owners to vaccinate their animals against the disease and to take actions that will minimize the breeding of mosquitos. To read the MDHHS press release, visit https://bit.ly/2FNh1vV.

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or Michigan.gov/EEE.

With the confirmation of six additional cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in horses, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced in a press release earlier today that aerial treatment is slated to continue tonight in an effort to protect Michigan residents and their animals from the virus.

These six new reports bring the total number of equid cases for 2020 to 28: Barry (1), Clare (5), Ionia (2), Isabella (1), Jackson (2), Kent (3), Livingston (1), Mecosta (1), Montcalm (8), Newaygo (2), and Oakland (2).

The case reported in Livingston County is the first discovery of the disease in that area this year. Also, of the six newly reported cases, five of the horses were unvaccinated and the other horse had an unclear vaccination history. It is imperative for owners to vaccinate their horses against the disease and to take actions that will minimize the breeding of mosquitos.

MDHHS Press Release: https://bit.ly/3muKeww

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or Michigan.gov/EEE.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 15, 2020

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

Case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis suspected in Barry County resident

Aerial treatment planned to begin Wednesday night in 10 counties to protect Michiganders from mosquito-borne diseases­

LANSING, Mich. – A Barry County resident is suspected of having Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Barry-Eaton District Health Department announced today.

Preliminary test results indicate the patient has EEE and confirmatory testing is expected to be completed by the end of the week at the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories. No additional information will be provided on this individual. This human case is in addition to 22 confirmed cases in horses from 10 counties. Michiganders are strongly urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites following the suspected EEE case along with nine confirmed cases of West Nile Virus.

“This suspected EEE case in a Michigan resident shows this is an ongoing threat to the health and safety of Michiganders and calls for continued actions to prevent exposure, including aerial treatment,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS. “MDHHS continues to encourage local officials in the affected counties to consider postponing, rescheduling or cancelling outdoor activities occurring at or after dusk, particularly those involving children to reduce the potential for people to be bitten by mosquitoes.”

EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, with a 33 percent fatality rate in people who become ill and a 90 percent fatality rate in horses that become ill. People can be infected with EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases from the bite of a mosquito carrying the viruses.

Signs of EEE infection include the sudden onset of fever, chills, body and joint aches which can progress to a severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures and paralysis. Anyone who thinks they may be experiencing these symptoms should contact a medical provider. Permanent brain damage, coma and death may also occur in some cases.

In an effort to prevent spread of EEE, MDHHS announced plans Monday, Sept. 14 to conduct aerial mosquito control treatment in certain high-risk areas of Michigan. Treatment is scheduled to begin Wednesday, Sept. 16 in the 10 impacted counties: Barry, Clare, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland. Additional areas may be selected for treatment if new human or animal cases occur outside of the currently identified zones.

Aerial treatment will be conducted by Clarke from St. Charles, Ill., using specialized aircraft, beginning in the early evening and continuing up until the following dawn. Treatment will be conducted using Merus 3.0, the same product used in 2019 in Michigan to treat 557,000 acres. Merus 3.0 is registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Michigan Department of Agricultural and Rural Development, and is labeled for public health use over residential areas.

Residents can stay healthy by following steps to avoid mosquito bites:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved product to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs.
• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.

For more information about EEE, visit Michigan.gov/EEE.

MDARD has confirmed 3 new cases of EEE in horses from Ionia, Montcalm, and Oakland counties, bringing the total number of cases to 22. It is vital for owners to vaccinate their horses against the disease.

For more information, please visit www.equinediseasecc.org or www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed the nineteenth case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a Quarter Horse mare from Jackson County.

The mare became ill on August 31, 2020, with neurological signs—including being down with an inability to rise that progressed to the horse becoming unresponsive. The mare was under-vaccinated against the disease and was later euthanized.

This latest case is the first report of the disease being found in Jackson County this year. Overall, EEE has been found this year in the following counties: Barry (1), Clare (5), Isabella (1), Jackson (1), Kent (1), Mecosta (1), Montcalm (6), Newaygo (2), and Oakland (1).

Since the disease will remain a concern until the state begins to experience hard frosts in mid-October, it is vital for horse owners to vaccinate their animals against the disease and to take actions that will minimize the breeding of mosquitos.

For more information, please visit equinediseasecc.org or michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

For immediate release: September 9, 2020

Media contacts:

MDARD: Jessy Sielski, 517-331-1151 | MDHHS: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112

Cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in 2020 are Outpacing Those from 2019

Horse owners are urged to vaccinate their animals

LANSING, Mich.—With the recent discovery of five additional cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in equids over the holiday weekend, the number of confirmed cases for 2020 is more than double the number cases found by this time last year. This rise in cases intensifies the need for horse owners to vaccinate their animals and for Michigan residents to take precautions.

EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the U.S. that can affect both animals and humans. In 2019, Michigan experienced one of the worst outbreaks of EEE ever documented in the state, with 10 human cases—including 6 deaths—and 50 cases in animals from 20 counties.

While the first case of EEE in 2019 was reported about two weeks earlier than the first case for this year, only eight cases of the disease were confirmed in horses at this point of the year in 2019. Currently, for 2020, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed 18 cases in equids.

Additionally, in 2019, the cases were found across only three counties: Barry (2), Kalamazoo (3), and St. Joseph (3). This year, cases have been discovered in eight counties: Barry (1), Clare (5), Isabella (1), Kent (1), Mecosta (1), Montcalm (6), Newaygo (2), and Oakland (1).

“We cannot state this strongly enough: horse owners and the general public need to take responsible, proactive steps to protect themselves and their animals from mosquito-borne diseases immediately,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM. “We don’t know if the dramatic increase in EEE equid cases is due to a lapse in vaccinations or a higher prevalence of EEE in Michigan’s mosquito population, but it doesn’t matter. If we ignore what’s happening, we run the risk of losing lives.”

Even though the state is experiencing some cooler temperatures, this should not cause horse owners or residents to ease up on the precautions that they are taking. The virus is typically seen in late summer to early fall each year in Michigan. Typically, mosquito-borne illnesses, like EEE, will continue to pose a risk to both animals and humans until about mid-October after there have been at least two hard frosts.

“We strongly urge Michiganders to take precautions against mosquito bites,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “Mosquito-borne diseases can cause long-term health effects in people, even death. Signs of EEE include the sudden onset of fever, chills, body and joint aches. Severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures and paralysis and even death can also occur.”

To protect your horses and other domestic animals (such as dogs, sheep, and goats), measures could include the following:

• Talking to a veterinarian about vaccinating horses against EEE.
• Placing livestock in a barn under fans (as mosquitos are not strong flyers) during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn.
• Using an insect repellant on an animal that is approved for the species.
• Eliminating standing water on the property—i.e., fill in puddles, repair eaves, and change the water in buckets and bowls at least once a day.
• Contacting a veterinarian if an animal shows signs of the illness: fever and stumbling, which can progress to being down and struggling to stand.

To protect yourself and your family, here’s what you should do now:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved products, to exposed skin or clothing and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused children’s pools, old tires, or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs.
• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.

For more information about mosquito-borne diseases, visit Michigan.gov/EmergingDiseases.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in an additional five equids from Clare, Isabella, Mecosta, and Montcalm (2) counties.

The cases discovered in Isabella and Mecosta counties are the first reports of the disease being found in those areas. Overall, these new findings bring the total number of equid cases for 2020 to 18: Barry (1), Clare (5), Isabella (1), Kent (1), Mecosta (1), Montcalm (6), Newaygo (2), and Oakland (1). Also, in all these cases, all animals were unvaccinated; and all are now deceased.

Since the disease will remain a concern until the state begins to experience hard frosts in mid-October, it is essential for horse owners to vaccinate their animals against the disease and to take actions that will minimize the breeding of mosquitoes.

For more information, please visit www.equinediseasecc.org or www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

MDARD has confirmed three additional cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in horses from Barry, Clare, and Oakland counties, which brings the total number of cases for the year to 13: Barry (1), Clare (4), Kent (1), Montcalm (4), Newaygo (2), and Oakland (1).

All of these cases have been discovered in horses, and these are the first reported cases for Barry and Oakland counties. Also, all of these affected horses were either unvaccinated or under-vaccinated and have died due to the severity of the disease or were euthanized.

It is crucial for owners to contact a veterinarian about vaccinating their horses against this disease and to contact a veterinarian if their horses are showing neurological signs—such as staggering, walking in circles, leaning against objects, and being down with an inability to get up.

For more information, please visit www.equinediseasecc.org or www.Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

In Michigan, five more horses, all unvaccinated, were confirmed to have Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). These new cases were discovered in Clare, Kent, Montcalm (2), and Newaygo counties.

While Clare, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties had already reported the presence of the disease, this is the first case for Kent County. Overall, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed 10 cases of EEE in the state so far this year: Clare (3), Kent (1), Montcalm (4), and Newaygo (2).

Due to these findings, it is imperative for horse owners to contact their veterinarian about vaccinating against the disease and to take other precautions to safeguard their animals.

For more information, please visit www.equinediseasecc.org or www.Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed three more cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in horses from Newaygo, Montcalm, and Clare counties.

While Newaygo County has now experienced its first case of EEE for 2020, the other new cases in Montcalm and Clare counties are the second known findings in these areas.

When comparing this year’s numbers to those from last year at this time, there have been fewer cases experienced overall. Last year, the first case of EEE occurred on July 22, 2019; and a total of seven cases were discovered by late August. This year, the first case of EEE was reported on August 11, 2020; and these latest findings bring the total number of cases in the state to five.

Horse owners are strongly advised to vaccinate their animals against the disease. Please contact your veterinarian about this option as well as take other precautions to safeguard your animals. Also, if an animal has difficulty standing or walking and develops a fever, please seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

For more information, visit: www.equinediseasecc.org or www.Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

For immediate release: August 19, 2020

Media contacts:

MDARD: Jessy Sielski, 517-331-1151 | MDHHS: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Confirmed in Montcalm County Horse

Residents and horse owners strongly urged to take precautions

LANSING, Mich.—Today, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) State Veterinarian, Dr. Nora Wineland, confirmed the second case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) for 2020 in a 12-year-old mare from Montcalm County. The discovery of this second case intensifies the need for both horse owners and Michigan residents to take precautions.

EEE is a zoonotic, viral disease, transmitted by mosquitoes to both animals and people. EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the U.S., and the virus is typically seen in late summer to early fall each year in Michigan.

While horses are highly affected by the disease, people can also be infected with EEE from the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. In humans, signs of EEE include the sudden onset of fever, chills, and body and joint aches. EEE infection can develop into severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and paralysis. Permanent brain damage, coma, and death may also occur in some cases.

“This second confirmed case of EEE in a horse reminds Michiganders of the strong need to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “It only takes one bite from a mosquito to transmit the virus, which can lead to severe neurologic illness, permanent disability, and sometimes death.”

To protect your horses and other domestic animals (such as dogs, sheep, and goats), measures could include the following:

• Talking to a veterinarian about vaccinating horses against EEE.
• Placing livestock in a barn under fans (as mosquitos are not strong flyers) during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn.
• Using an insect repellant on an animal that is approved for the species.
• Eliminating standing water on the property—i.e., fill in puddles, repair eaves, and change the water in buckets and bowls at least once a day.
• Contacting a veterinarian if an animal shows signs of the illness: fever and stumbling, which can progress to being down and struggling to stand.

To protect yourself and your family, here’s what you should do now:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved products, to exposed skin or clothing and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused children’s pools, old tires, or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs.
• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.

Overall, mosquito-borne illnesses, like EEE, will continue to pose a risk to both animals and humans until late fall when nighttime temperatures consistently fall below freezing.

For more information about mosquito-borne diseases, visit Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

For immediate release: August 11, 2020

Media contacts:

MDARD: Jessy Sielski, 517-331-1151, SielskiJ@Michigan.gov

MDHHS: Bob Wheaton, 517-241-2112, WheatonB@Michigan.gov

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Confirmed in Clare County Horse How to Protect Your Animals, Yourself, and Your Family

LANSING, Mich.—Today, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) State Veterinarian, Dr. Nora Wineland, confirmed the first case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) for 2020 in a two-year-old filly from Clare County, which underscores the need for both horse owners and Michigan residents to take precautions.

EEE is a zoonotic, viral disease, transmitted by mosquitoes to both animals and people. EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the U.S., with a 90-percent fatality rate among horses that become ill and a 33-percent fatality rate among humans who become ill. Last year, Michigan experienced 50 cases of EEE in animals and a record of 10 cases in humans. The virus is typically seen in late summer to early fall each year in Michigan.

People can be infected with EEE from the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. The disease is not spread by horse-to-horse or horse-to-human contact. In humans, signs of EEE include the sudden onset of fever, chills, and body and joint aches. EEE infection can develop into severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and paralysis. Permanent brain damage, coma, and death may also occur in some cases.

“In 2019, Michigan experienced the worst outbreak of EEE ever documented in the state, with 10 human cases—including 6 deaths and 50 cases in animals from 20 counties,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “Michiganders are strongly urged to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites. It only takes one bite from a mosquito to transmit the virus, which can lead to severe neurologic illness, permanent disability, and sometimes death.”

“This Clare County horse was never vaccinated against EEE, and it developed signs of illness—including walking in circles, leaning to the right, and pressing her head against objects—which progressed to the horse being down on the ground with an inability to get up,” said Dr. Wineland. “Horse owners in Michigan should take extra measures to protect their animals.”

To protect your animals, measures could include the following:

• Talking to a veterinarian about vaccinating horses against EEE.
• Placing horses in a barn under fans (as mosquitos are not strong flyers) during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn.
• Using an insect repellant on the animals that is approved for the species.
• Eliminating standing water on the property—i.e., fill in puddles, repair eaves, and change the water in buckets and bowls at least once a day.
• Contacting a veterinarian if a horse shows signs of the illness: mild fever and stumbling, which can progress to being down and struggling to stand.

To protect yourself and your family, here’s what you should do now:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved products to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused children’s pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs.
• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas. Overall, mosquito-borne illnesses, like EEE, will continue to pose a risk to both animals and humans until late fall when nighttime temperatures consistently fall below freezing.

For more information about mosquito-borne diseases, visit Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 3, 2020

MDHHS CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

MDARD CONTACT: Jessy Sielski, 517-331-1151, SielskiJ@michigan.gov

First human case of West Nile virus for 2020 confirmed in Michigan

Cases of Eastern Equine encephalitis virus in horses are on the rise

­­­­­LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) today confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) for 2020 in a Wayne County resident.

“As we approach a long holiday weekend, it’s vital to continue protecting your family from mosquito bites,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS. “It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness, so take extra care during peak mosquito-biting hours, which are dusk and dawn for the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus and Eastern Equine encephalitis virus.”

In addition to WNV, Eastern Equine encephalitis (EEE) virus is again circulating in Michigan, with 13 confirmed cases in horses from Barry, Clare, Kent, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland counties.

“Whether you’re talking about West Nile, EEE or any other mosquito-borne disease, people and animal owners should take every precaution necessary to prevent infection,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM. “There is a lot happening in people’s lives right now, but we can’t let our guard down. I strongly urge animal owners to work with their veterinarian to make sure all their animals are vaccinated appropriately.”

To date, two birds have tested positive for WNV from Lapeer and Oakland counties. In addition, 14 WNV positive mosquito pools have been detected in five Michigan counties, including Arenac, Kent, Lapeer, Oakland and Saginaw. Finding infected birds, animals and mosquitoes in a community is an indication of risk for human infection.

In 2019, the WNV season was less severe, with only 12 human cases, including two deaths, reported. However, the state experienced the worst outbreak of EEE virus ever recorded, with 10 human cases, including six deaths and 50 cases in animals. Between Sept. 28 and Oct. 10, 2019, more than 557,000 acres in Michigan were treated with aerial applications of insecticide to kill infected mosquitoes and prevent additional cases.

Most people who become infected with WNV will not develop any symptoms of illness. However, some become sick three to 15 days after exposure. About one in five infected persons will have mild illness with fever, and about one in 150 infected people will become severely ill.

Mild illness may include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting diarrhea or rash. Severe symptoms of WNV are associated with encephalitis or meningitis, and may include stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, muscle weakness, convulsions and paralysis. People 60 and older are more susceptible to these severe symptoms.

Residents can stay healthy by using simple, effective strategies to protect themselves and their families. The following steps are recommended to avoid WNV, EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other EPA-approved product to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs.
• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.

For more information and surveillance activity about West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne viruses, visit Michigan.gov/westnilevirus.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 5, 2020

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

First West Nile virus activity of 2020 detected in Michigan Residents urged to protect against mosquito bites

LANSING, Mich. – The first West Nile virus activity for Michigan in 2020 has been reported in a captive hawk from Lapeer County. Residents are reminded that the best way to protect themselves against West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis, is to prevent mosquito bites.

Every summer in Michigan, bites from mosquitoes carry the risk of spreading diseases to people and animals. Last year, West Nile virus (WNV) sickened 12 Michiganders, and 20 animals and birds.

“It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions such as using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors.”

Although WNV is common in Michigan, in 2019 the state experienced the worst outbreak of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus ever recorded. There was EEE activity reported in 20 Michigan counties, with 50 cases in animals and 10 people infected with EEE, including six deaths. Nationally, 26 states reported EEE activity, with 38 human cases and 19 deaths occurring in 10 of those states. To date, there has not been EEE detected in Michigan, however this virus is typically detected later in the summer.

Symptoms of arbovirus infection, like WNV, typically include a high fever, confusion, muscle weakness and a severe headache. More serious complications include neurological illnesses, such as meningitis and encephalitis.

WNV and EEE are transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Most people who contract the virus have no clinical symptoms of illness, but some may become ill three to 15 days after the bite of an infected mosquito. As summer temperatures rise, mosquitoes and the virus develop more quickly so it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites as weather warms.

Mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus may breed near people’s homes in storm drains, shallow ditches, retention ponds and unused pools. They will readily come indoors to bite if window and door screens are not maintained.

The best way to prevent West Nile disease or any other mosquito-borne illness is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Precautions include:

• Using EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol or 2-undecanone; follow the product label instructions and reapply as directed.
  • Don’t use repellent on children under 2 months old. Instead dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs and cover crib, stroller and baby carrier with mosquito netting.
• Wearing shoes and socks, light colored long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors.
• Making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or other openings.
• Using bed nets when sleeping outdoors or in conditions with no window screens.
• Eliminating all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding around your home, including water in bird baths, abandoned swimming pools, wading pools, old tires and any other object holding water once a week.

For information about the current WNV and EEE activity in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/emergingdiseases. A summary of Michigan counties in which arbovirus infection has been detected in mosquitoes, animals and people is included.

Most Michigan counties do not have local level mosquito surveillance and control. As a result of the EEE outbreak in 2019, Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties will be working with Michigan State University, the Midwest Centers of Excellence in Vector-borne Disease, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to develop a new surveillance system for EEE in southwest Michigan. This effort aims to improve knowledge of the ecology of this disease in our state, establish meaningful surveillance based upon mosquito populations, develop better ways to combat EEE, and prevent future outbreaks of disease.