More Information
For up-to-date information on West Nile and other mosquito-borne viruses see our Mosquito-Borne Illnesses pages or call the West Nile virus toll-free hotline at 1-877-WST-NILE from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This week the Mississippi Department of Health (MDH) reported two new West Nile virus (WNV) human deaths — one in Grenada County and one in Harrison County.
One new WNV human case was also reported, bringing the state's WNV human case total to 181, with 13 resulting in death. The new WNV human case was reported in Washington County. This time last year, Mississippi health officials reported 70 human WNV cases with six deaths.
State Health Officer Dr. Brian Amy reminds Mississippians that although Mississippi is out of the traditional WNV peak season, residents should still practice protective measures to avoid mosquito bites.
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Mississippians can take the following simple precautions to reduce their risk of contracting West Nile virus:
- remove sources of standing water;
- avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially at night when mosquito activity is highest;
- wear protective clothing (such as long-sleeved shirts and pants) when in mosquito-prone areas when possible; and
- apply a mosquito repellent according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Approximately 80 percent of people who are infected with WNV will have no symptoms. The remaining 20 percent may experience a range of flu-like symptoms.
Symptoms of West Nile virus infection are often mild or flu-like and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes. In a small number of people, infection can result in encephalitis or meningitis which can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.
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Press Contact: Liz Sharlot or Kelly Shannon, (601) 576-7667. | 
