LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services(MDHHS) along with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have confirmed one deer in Jackson County that has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), according to the Jackson County Health Department.
“Out of an abundance of caution, and in alignment with the guidance given by MDHHS, we recommend that groups limit if possible outdoor events and activities that occur during dusk to dawn, 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., or relocate the event to an indoor space,” said Rashmi Travis, Jackson County Health Department Health Officer. “These precautionary measures should continue until the first hard frost decreases the mosquito population.”
If relocation of outdoor activities isn't possible, including but not limited to, early morning bus pickup, the Jackson County Health Department strongly urges the following actions be taken:
• Use EPA-registered insect repellents that include DEET or another EPA-approved product.
• Wear socks with shoes, light-colored long pants, and long-sleeved shirts.
• Dump all standing water around homes and buildings.
• Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens with tears or gaps.
• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.
• Use bed nets for those sleeping outdoors or in conditions with no window screens.
• Share these messages on your social media platforms to increase awareness about preventative measures to take.
Michigan is experiencing widespread human and animal activity of EEE, and as of Thursday, Sept. 19, Michigan has had seven confirmed human cases since July, including three fatalities in Cass, Van Buren and Kalamazoo Counties, according to the Jackson County Health Department.
For more information about mosquito-borne diseases, click here.
Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
