The primary mosquito-borne virus of the 12 months has been identified in Michigan, prompting the state health department to induce residents to take crucial precautions.

Traces of the Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) were present in Saginaw County, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) said in a press release. The virus is more likely to last from late spring to mid-fall.

Though JCV is found across the U.S., it’s most typical within the Midwest. Six people in Michigan were infected last 12 months, while one case was reported in 2021. No human cases have been reported to this point this 12 months, the department said.

How does the virus spread?

Jamestown Canyon virus is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes change into infected after feeding on animals carrying the virus of their blood. It is important to notice that humans are considered “dead-end” hosts for the virus, meaning they cannot further spread the infection, based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Common symptoms

Those infected with the virus are more likely to experience mild-to-moderate symptoms, which may manifest inside a couple of days to 2 weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue and respiratory issues like cough, sore throat or runny nose in some individuals.

Precautions to take against the virus

To forestall Jamestown Canyon virus infection, it is best to guard yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites.

• Use insect repellents that contain DEET; follow the instructions on the label. As much as 30% DEET is secure and effective for adults and youngsters over two months old. Other repellents like picaridin, IR3535 and oil of lemon eucalyptus are also effective. Be sure that to make use of products registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Treat your clothing and kit with products that contain permethrin before going outdoors.
• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover your skin from mosquito bites.
• Keep mosquitoes out of your house by ensuring that windows and doors have screens in good condition.

“It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions, corresponding to using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, avoiding areas where mosquitos are present if possible, and wearing clothing to cover legs and arms to stop bites.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) said dengue affects 50 million to 100 million people every 12 months the world over.
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Published by Medicaldaily.com