LANSING - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) advises all Michigan residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

Two of the most serious diseases that mosquitoes spread in Michigan are the West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

As of October 8th, there have been eight cases of West Nile Virus and 10 cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis. MDHHS reports one new human case of mosquito-borne EEE in Southwest Michigan and new counties with affected animals

If you are spending time outdoors, some helpful tips from the Health Department to prevent mosquito bites include: applying insect repellents containing the active ingredient DEET to exposed skin and clothing, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, use window and door screening to keep mosquitoes outside, empty water from mosquito breeding sites such as buckets, unused kiddie pools and old tires, and use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas.

Residents are encouraged to share these tips with one another.

According to the MDHHS, once winter weather starts setting in, the risk of mosquito bites will be gone.