There is nothing like a Michigan summer — bonfires, lake days, camping trips and … mosquitoes.
Every year, as the temperatures rise and the skeeters begin swooping in, so do the headlines. News reports about mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus or Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) can be chilling to the bone — particularly for parents, nature lovers and people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
But just how much of a risk is it, really?
Let’s take the truth and break it down: Though mosquito-borne illness exists in Michigan, the real risk to the everyday person is extremely low. That doesn’t mean you should dismiss it completely — but it also doesn’t mean you have to panic or abandon your summer pleasure.
What Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Are Found in Michigan?
The most common mosquito-borne viruses found in Michigan include:
- West Nile Virus (WNV)
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
- Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV)
- St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE)
These viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes and, while they can be serious, they are incredibly rare in the general population. In fact, the majority of people who become infected with West Nile Virus never even develop symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they’re generally mild — think low-grade fever, headache or fatigue.
Severe cases of mosquito-borne illness, like encephalitis or meningitis, are extremely rare, and tend to happen to people with weakened immune systems, the elderly or very young children.
What Do the Numbers Say?
Let’s talk about facts.
In a typical year:
- Michigan may report 10–30 cases of West Nile virus in humans.
- EEE cases are even rarer, sometimes fewer than 5 per year.
- Most mosquito bites in Michigan lead to nothing more than a few days of itchiness.
To put it into perspective: You’re far more likely to be injured driving to your weekend campsite than to catch a mosquito-borne illness while you’re there.
So… Should I Worry?
Not really. But you should be smart.
Mosquitoes aren’t merely annoying; they can spoil an otherwise perfect night outside. And although the health risk is low, the itch factor is very real.
At Ditch the Itch, we like to make sure you are prepared. If you can steer clear of bites, you eliminate the problem. And if you do get bitten? We got your back (and your arms, and your legs).
Here’s How to Stay Protected:
- Use mosquito repellents with natural or DEET-based ingredients, especially during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn).
- Wear long sleeves and pants if you’re hiking, camping, or near standing water.
- Remove standing water around your home—mosquitoes breed in even small pools.
- Our proven mosquito yard treatments create a protective barrier around your home.
When to Call a Doctor
If you do experience unusual symptoms after a mosquito bite—like a high fever, confusion, neck stiffness, or severe headaches—it’s a good idea to get checked out. But again, these symptoms are extremely uncommon.
Final Buzz: Stay Calm, Stay Itch-Free
In Michigan, mosquitoes are primarily a nuisance, not a threat. It’s nice to be informed, but better to be prepared. The vast majority of people in the US will never get a mosquito-borne virus in their lifetimes, and the same is true right here in Michigan.
So get out there. Enjoy the lakes. Hike the trails. Roast the marshmallows.
And what if the mosquitoes find you before the s’mores do?
Contact Ditch the Itch—and keep your adventures itch-free.