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Mosquito-borne illnesses include West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis, and Eastern Equine encephalitis. These illnesses affect birds, animals and humans, causing flu-like symptoms in people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes. Occasionally, illness can be severe, leading to meningitis or encephalitis.
Types of Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Five main types of viral disease in Mississippi are carried by mosquitoes.
Prevention: Mosquito-borne illnesses can be prevented by eliminating places where mosquitoes breed, and by protecting yourself from mosquito bites when outside. On this page you'll find our recommendations for protection, and other steps you can take to help prevent the spread of these diseases.
Mississippi's West Nile Hotline: 877-978-6453
For Your Protection
Information and Fact Sheets
Dead Birds: MSDH is no longer requesting that the public to report or submit dead birds. Statewide mosquito surveillance has proven to be a more effective predictor of West Nile virus circulating in the community.
WNV Support Group
Persons diagnosed with West Nile virus illnesses are invited to attend meetings of the WNV Support Group. Support Group meetings are sponsored by the Mississippi Methodist Rehabilitation Center at 1350 East Woodrow Wilson in Jackson.
Mosquito Protection
- Use a recommended mosquito repellent.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants.
- Avoid mosquito-prone areas in the mornings and evenings, when activity is highest.
- Remove sources of standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed.
2013 Human Cases
West Nile virus and mosquito-borne illnesses in humans confirmed by MSDH.
Video: WNV Prevention
Dr. Thomas Dobbs
State Epidemiologist
For Health Professionals
- Signs & Symptoms – Facts for Clinicians
- Mosquito biology and control: The mosquito vectors of West Nile
- Identification Guide to Adult Mosquitoes in Mississippi
- Setting up a mosquito control program
- Presentation: About West Nile Virus
- More clinical information from the CDC
For More Information
Mississippi's toll-free West Nile Virus hotline: 1-877-WST-NILE (1-877-978-6453)
The CDC has set up public hotlines for questions concerning West Nile Virus:
- English : 1-888-246-2675
- Spanish : 1-888-246-2857
- Hearing-impaired : 1-866-874-2646
