After a falcon tested positive for West Nile Virus, Detroit officials encouraged residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.

The Detroit Health Department has issued an advisory for residents to take caution to avoid mosquito bites.

On August 26, the department reported that a falcon found near 7 Mile and the Southfield Freeway tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). However, there have been no confirmed cases of WNV in humans in Detroit or Wayne County to date.

Mitigating your West Nile Virus risk 

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), WNV can be spread through mosquito bites. Residents are urged to take precautionary measures such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, avoiding outdoor activities when mosquitoes are active, and using insect repellent.

In addition to these recommendations, residents should ensure window and door screens are secured to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes. It is also advised to eliminate standing water from areas around the home, such as buckets and bird baths, which are potential breeding sites for mosquitoes. When dining outdoors, the use of mosquito nets and fans is encouraged.

WNV symptoms range from mild to severe and include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and a rash on the chest, stomach, or back. Residents who believe they have contracted WNV are requested to contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Further information about WNV can be found on the MDHHS website. To report a deceased animal suspected to have contracted WNV, residents can contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources via their “Eyes in the Field” reporting site.