First human case of West Nile virus confirmed in Ottawa County
Ottawa County health officials confirmed the county’s first human case of West Nile virus this year after a local resident was hospitalized with the mosquito-borne illness.
HOLLAND — Ottawa County health officials confirmed the county’s first human case of West Nile virus this year after a local resident was hospitalized with the mosquito-borne illness.
The individual, who has no recent travel history, likely contracted the virus locally in West Michigan, according to the Ottawa County Department of Public Health.
No deaths have been reported.
"Most people who get West Nile virus never know they had it, but it can make some people very sick," said Dr. Gwen Unzicker, OCDPH Medical Director. "Even though we're heading into fall, it's important to continue to use repellent, cover up at dawn and dusk, and dump out any standing water around your home. This case is a reminder that the mosquitoes carrying this virus are active right here."
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which contracts the pathogen after feeding on infected birds. Health officials warn that mosquito season extends from summer into late autumn, ending only after the area's first hard freeze.
Symptoms, severity
Although approximately 80% of infected individuals display no symptoms, roughly one in five develops flu-like illness characterized by fever, headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash.
In rare instances, the virus infects the central nervous system, leading to severe neurological complications. Health authorities urge immediate medical evaluation if any of the following severe symptoms occur:
- High fever
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures
Because no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines exist for West Nile virus, medical care focuses on supportive relief. Most mild cases resolve independently with rest and fluid intake.
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Prevention measures
Public health officials emphasize that bite prevention remains the primary defense against infection:
- Apply insect repellent: Use EPA-registered formulas containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Cover up: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants during outdoor activities, particularly during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk.
- Maintain structures: Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to keep insects outdoors.
- Eliminate standing water: Drain outdoor water containers weekly—including buckets, birdbaths, kiddie pools, flowerpot saucers, and tires—to disrupt mosquito breeding grounds.
Residents seeking further information on local vector-borne illness precautions can visit miottawa.org/outdoorhealth or michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.
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