There are plenty of reasons Michigan residents enjoy summertime in Michigan. One of those reasons is the warmer weather that allows us to enjoy more of our favorite outdoor activities. But state officials are now warning residents to take caution outdoors as a deadly disease spread through bug bites has been confirmed in Michigan.

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Deadly Disease From Bug Bites Now Confirmed In Michigan

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, two mosquito pools from Kent and St. Clair counties have tested positive for West Nile virus. The virus is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites and can cause serious illness, and even death. Symptoms include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, and muscle weaknessBut officials warn that's not the only deadly virus mosquitos could be transmitting to Michigan residents.

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Mosquito pools in Bay, Calhoun, and Saginaw counties have tested positive for Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV). According to MDHHS, JVC is spread through bites from infected mosquitos and symptoms of JVC are similar to West Nile Virus. JVC can also cause 'severe disease in the brain and spinal cord including encephalitis and meningitis.'

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The MDHHS says the best way to protect yourself against West Nile Virus and JVC is to prevent mosquito bites. Residents are urged to apply mosquito repellent and wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors. Homeowners are reminded to empty water from mosquito breeding grounds outdoors and to maintain window and door screens to help keep mosquitoes outside.

Read More: Drug More Deadly Than Fentanyl Could Be in Michigan Already

The Colors and Scents Mosquitos Love and Hate

Avoid being eaten alive by mosquitos this summer by giving yourself a fighting chance with these DIY repellents you can use today. Please scroll through the gallery below to find out what colors attract these little blood-suckers, which colors they ignore, and what kinds of scents will keep them away all day.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Michigan Residents Advised to NOT Travel to These 9 Places

The United States Department of State regularly issues travel advisories for Americans to help keep them safe during their vacations. There are four levels of advisories: exercise normal precautions, exercise increased caution, reconsider travel and do not travel. These are nine of the 19 destinations under a Level 4: DO NOT TRAVEL advisory.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

 

 

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