GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A Kent County resident has died from West Nile virus (WNV), the county health department announced Thursday.

The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) confirmed the county's first case of WNV, which they say resulted in death. KCHD says this is the first WNV-related death in the county since May of 2024.

The virus is transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes, which are found throughout Michigan.

The person that died lived just 3,000 feet from where the virus was detected in mosquito samples.

"Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of this individual," said Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at KCHD. "This tragic outcome is a reminder that mosquitoes in our area are active and capable of spreading serious illness. Prevention remains our best p

See Full Page