Canada Goose carrying West Nile Virus found in Cheboygan County

CHEBOYGAN COUNTY, Michigan (WPBN/WGTU) — A case of West Nile Virus has been confirmed in a dead bird in Cheboygan County.

District Health Department No. 4 (DHD4) was recently notified by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) of a positive case found in a Canada Goose.

The goose was one of six geese found dead in the water in October. Authorities collected only one of the birds for testing.

There has been a recent increase in birds found to have similar diseases in Northern Michigan, according to health officials.

If you find a sick bird or mammal, you are encouraged to report them to authorities. DNR online or by calling/texting 518-336-5030.

People are transmitted West Nile Virus by mosquitoes, and most people have no signs or symptoms of the disease.

In rare cases, it can cause life-threatening illness, especially in very young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.

About 1 in 150 people who are infected may develop a very serious condition called encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.

DHD4 would like to remind people to protect themselves from mosquito bites even during the cold months to prevent the spread of diseases such as WNV. “Mosquito season in Michigan runs through November, so even as it starts to get cooler outside, the risk of being bitten is still there,” says DHD4 Health Officer Denise Bryan. “West Nile Virus is preventable. Our community has many beautiful places for recreational activities. Don’t forget to protect yourself when you’re out!”