(WXYZ) – The invasive Asian tiger mosquito has been identified in Wayne County, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Wayne County Health Department announced today.
First discovered in 2017, the Asian tiger mosquito was found in an industrial area in Taylor. Previously, it had been found in an industrial area in Livonia and Romulus.
The mosquito, along with the yellow fever mosquito, can transmit viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, and zika to people. These mosquitoes range from tropical to temperate regions of the world, including many parts of the U.S.
They don’t normally happen in Michigan because winters are too harsh, but warm climates are supporting the spread.
“Although we have not had any disease associated with these mosquito species in Michigan, it is important to take precautions as other mosquitoes can transmit viruses such as West Nile and eastern equine encephalitis to people,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief MDHHS physician. executive director and deputy director of health. “We urge Michiganns to take precautions, such as using an EPA-registered insect repellent when they are outdoors.”
The Asian tiger mosquito can live in areas with climates ranging from tropical to temperate, and its known range has been extended in the US They are considered established in many midwestern states, including Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana.
The state said mosquitoes will occasionally travel on commercial products shipped from other states, and that’s probably how it appeared in Wayne County.
Michigan residents can protect themselves from mosquito bites by:
- Eliminating standing water sources, such as children’s pools, old tires, buckets, and containers, pouring water to prevent mosquito eggs from hatching or larvae from becoming stinging adults.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when outdoors.
- Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent according to the directions on the label.
- Make sure doors and windows have tight meshes.
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