Lansing, MI (Great Lakes News) – As if 2020 weren’t challenging enough, here’s another fly in the ointment; actually, it’s mosquitoes.
Michigan officials say the invasive Asian tiger mosquito has made its way to the Great Lakes State again. It was first spotted in Wayne County three years ago and now the blood-sucking pest has been found in other parts of southeast Michigan.
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The Asian tiger mosquito can carry the Zika virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). However, state officials said no illnesses linked to the mosquitoes have been identified here.
“Although we have not had any illnesses associated with these species of mosquitoes in Michigan, it is important to take precautions since other mosquitoes can spread viruses such as West Nile and Eastern Equine Encephalitis to people,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the state’s chief medical executive. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions such as using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors.”
Other ways you can prevent mosquito bites include eliminating standing water and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when walking through woodsy areas.
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