EEE Virus Claims Fifth Life in Michigan

Things are starting to get a little scary in Michigan as the deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus has claimed another life.

According to ABC12, a Cass County resident in Southwest Michigan recently died of the mosquito-borne illness. So far this year, 10 people in Michigan have contracted the virus and five have died. EEE also has been confirmed in 40 animals from 16 counties, including Genesee, Lapeer and Tuscola.

I thought we were kind of in the clear because temps were starting to drop. Apparently you need an extended period of freezing temperatures before you're no longer at risk.

For the time being, it's best to try and not be outside for a long period after dusk. I know that's easier said than done sometimes but at least try to limit your time outside. Also, try to avoid going outside wearing shorts and short sleeves as well.

The state did spray near areas where EEE infected animals had been located. They covered 14 counties but I'm not for sure if Genesee County was one of those counties, at first, I heard they did spray then I heard they didn't.

The best you thing you can do is just take the proper precautions.