Health Officials Urge Prevention Following West Nile Virus Detection in Two Kent County ZIP Codes
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (June 2, 2026) — Through routine mosquito surveillance, the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) in mosquito samples collected from two zip codes—49504 (Grand Rapids) and 49519 (Wyoming)—marking the first detections of the 2026 season.
"These findings reinforce that mosquitoes are active in our area and capable of spreading illness through their bites," said Sara Simmonds, Director of the KCHD's Environmental Health Division. "Simple precautions like applying insect repellent and getting rid of standing water around your home can go a long way in reducing your risk while still enjoying the outdoors."
Transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, WNV is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most people infected with the virus experience no symptoms, but about one in five develop mild, flu-like illness—including fever, headache, body aches, or rash. In rare cases, WNV can lead to serious neurological complications.
Since there is no vaccine or specific treatment for WNV, the best way to protect yourself and your family when mosquitoes are present is by following these simple tips:
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Use insect repellent with 10-35% DEET, and always follow label directions
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Wear long sleeves and pants to limit skin exposure
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Avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
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Eliminate standing water around your home—refresh bird baths, wading pools, pet bowls, and empty small containers regularly
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Keep screens and gutters in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home
KCHD’s Mosquito Surveillance Team will continue to monitor local mosquitoes for WNV, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus, Jamestown Canyon virus, La Crosse virus, and St. Louis encephalitis virus through late September—when populations tend to decline significantly.
To learn more about mosquitoes and the diseases they carry, please visit the CDC's website. For questions or to schedule a media interview, available between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. today, Tuesday, June 2, please email Christina Anthony.
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