© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
TECHNOTE: Friday Apr 26 Update - TV is broadcasting at low power. LEARN MORE HERE.

State health department has no plans this year to spray for mosquitoes carrying EEE

Pixabay

The state health department says it has no current plans this summer to spray for mosquitoes to prevent the spread of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

In 2019, Michigan experienced an outbreak of the mosquito-borne viral disease. Six people died due to EEE.

The state Department of Health and Human Services ordered aerial insecticide spraying in several counties during the following year.

Mosquitoes in Barry and Bay counties recently tested positive for the virus, but MDHHS spokesperson Lynn Sutfin says no Michigan resident has been diagnosed with EEE yet this year.

Sutfin still advises caution, recommending that people spray themselves with DEET insect repellent, wear long sleeves, empty outside water containers once a week and use mosquito nets and fans while outdoors.

Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!