The good news: weather is finally returning. The bad news: so are mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can spread West Nile Virus and other infectious diseases.
To prevent that, Independence Township is giving free insect repellent spray at Independence Township Hall, Clarkston-Independence Library, and the DPW.
The township bought 165 cases of Cutter insect repellent for $5,940. The one-ounce bottles will also be distributed free during local community events.
The township is eligible for reimbursement of up to $6,041.51 to purchase the spray through an Oakland County’s West Nile virus, in effect since 2003.
‘The fund was established to reimburse communities for eligible expenses incurred in connection with the mosquito control activities,? said Township Supervisor Pat Kittle.
April to October is the most common times of year top get bitten by mosquitoes, lice, ticks, and other biting insects.
West Nile Virus was first discovered in Michigan birds in 2001. In 2002, the first two humans in the state tested positive. An Oakland County bird tested first tested positive for WNV in 2003, and the first Oakland County resident tested positive in 2012. Since then time 133 cases of WNV have been confirmed in Oakland County.
Symptoms begin about 3-14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquitoes. There is no cure for WNV, and physicians can only provide treatment support to deal with WNV symptoms.
About 20 percent of people infected with WNV exhibit symptoms like headache, high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, sever headaches, swollen lymph nodes and a rash.
To get free supplies visit the DPW Garage at 6050 Flemings Lake Road or call 248-625-8222 or visit Independence Township Hall at 6483 Waldon Center Drive or call 248-625-5111.

Prevention tips

If you are prone to mosquito bites, there are steps you can take to help prevent bites.
-Spend less time outdoors and wear preventative clothing that covers your body with long sleeves and pants;
-Use insect repellant containing DEET, and also spray on clothing;
-Ensure screens in your home are free of holes and damage to prevent the pesky critters from getting inside and biting you when you sleep;
-If you are especially prone to mosquitos bites, avoid outdoor activities from dusk until dawn, when mosquitos are really active and bite the most;
-Destroy mosquito habitat on your property. Insect habitat includes free standing waters, these are known as mosquito breeding grounds;
-Keep areas on the property drained from free standing stagnant water including water in flower pots, old tires, bird baths, water on pool covers and anything else that can collect stagnant water.
-Michigan resident can also help by reporting dead birds, possible victims of WNV, to local health departments.
www.oakgov.com/health