Public Media from Michigan State University

Health officials want vigilance on encephalitis

By AP

KALAMAZOO, MI – Health officials are reminding people to be vigilant about taking steps to prevent the spread of Eastern equine encephalitis in Michigan.

The Kalamazoo Gazette reports there have been recent reports of seven more dead horses from the disease. They include two in Calhoun County and one each in Allegan, Kalamazoo, Jackson, Eaton and Shiawassee counties.

Lab testing in recent months has confirmed 42 Michigan horses with mosquito-borne disease. Another 77 have been diagnosed with symptoms.

The disease is rare but can be deadly among humans. Last month, Michigan health officials reported that lab tests confirmed that three people contracted the disease.

Health officials say people should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and horses should be vaccinated.

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