CASS COUNTY, Mich. -- The Van Buren/Cass District Health Department announced a great blue heron found in Cass County has tested positive for West Nile virus, after being notified by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Health officials say this makes 69 birds in total which tested positive for West Nile Virus so far in Michigan this year.

West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in Michigan and across the US.  

Community members are asked to take the following steps to protect themselves and reduce mosquito breeding:

• Remove standing water from containers like flowerpots, buckets, tires, and gutters where mosquitoes can breed.
• Use insect repellent registered with the EPA, such as those containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Health officials say while the detection of West Nile in birds does not guarantee human cases, it's an early warning the virus is present in the local mosquito population.

You can learn more about local programs, services, and public health updates on the VBCDHD website.