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West Nile virus strikes Saint Joseph County

WMUK

State health officials say they've confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in Michigan so far this year. The Department of Community Health in Lansing says the case involves a man in Saint Joseph County. It says eight birds from around the state have also tested positive for this virus that it is spread by mosquitoes.

West Nile infected more than 200 people in Michigan last year and 17 died of the disease that can lead to serious complications like meningitis and encephalitis.

  State officials say about one of every 150 people bitten by an infected mosquito come down with the illness. Those older than 50 are the most susceptible.

Andy Robins has been WMUK's News Director since 1998 and a broadcast journalist for over 24 years. He joined WMUK's staff in 1985. Under his direction, WMUK has received numerous awards for news reporting.