West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis are the primary mosquito-borne disease threats in Newark and throughout Michigan. Both can cause serious illness and even death, with EEE having fatality rates of 50-70% in humans. West Nile virus is more common and typically peaks in August and September. Most people infected don’t develop symptoms, but about 1 in 5 develop fever, headache, and body aches. About 1 in 150 infected people develop serious, potentially fatal neurological illness. Eastern Equine Encephalitis is less common but more deadly. Michigan typically sees cases in late summer, especially in rural areas with freshwater swamps. The Michigan Department of Health tracks both diseases through mosquito surveillance, and we stay informed about local activity levels to adjust our treatment approach when disease risk is elevated in your area.