In light of diseased birds being reported in Antrim county earlier this week, are you wondering what to do if you see a sick or deceased bird? After tests by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), these birds were found to be infected with mosquito-spread viruses, West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). 

Health Department of Northwest Michigan (HDNW) and the DNR are encouraging residents to report sick or diseased birds or other animals by going to https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/ors/Survey/4 or calling (517) 336-5030. Follow the instructions on the DNR website and do not move the bird from its location. HDNW does not collect birds for testing.

Protect Yourself and Your Pets 

HDNW is here to provide residents with information on how to best protect themselves.  

“Based on the DNR’s lab results, we know that birds in the area are infected with these viruses,” says Dan Thorell, HDNW Health Officer. “While there’s no need to panic, we are encouraging people to do limit exposure to the mosquitos and to report any suspicious birds to the DNR.” 

WNV is the leading cause of mosquito-spread disease in the continental U.S. About one in five people who are infected, develop a fever and other symptoms while others do not feel sick. Although rare, EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-spread diseases in the U.S., with a 33% fatality rate among people who become ill. The fatality rate in birds and other animals varies.  

To protect yourself from mosquito bites:  

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved products, to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.  

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.  

• Avoid being outside during peak mosquito activity between dusk and dawn.  

• Use windows and doors with well-maintained screens.  

• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires, or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs.  

• Use nets and/or fans over outdoor seating areas.  

To protect animals:  

• Put farm animals in the barn during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn.  

• Check with your vet on whether EEE vaccinations are available for your animals.  

• Use an insect repellant on the animals approved for the species.  

• Again, eliminate standing water on your property.