JACKSON, MS (WJTV) – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has confirmed the discovery of two new cases of West Nile Virus out of Lauderdale and Marion counties.
An official release says “Adams, Att
JACKSON, MS (WJTV) – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has confirmed the discovery of two new cases of West Nile Virus out of Lauderdale and Marion counties.
An official release says “Adams, Attala, Covington, Forrest (2), Hinds (6), Lauderdale, Madison (4), Marion, Montgomery, Rankin (5), Simpson (2), Washington, and Yazoo counties” have reported cases this year. The only fatal case reported has come out of Attala County.
MSDH lists symptoms of West Nile Virus as “fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes. In a small number of cases, infection can result in encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.”
The release also says the following are ways to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses:
- Use a recommended mosquito repellent that contains DEET while you are outdoors.
- Remove all sources of standing water around your home and yard to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Wear loose, light-colored, long clothing to cover the arms and legs when outdoors.
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes are prevalent.
The total number of cases for West Nile in Mississippi this year is 27. Click for here for more information.