Jackson, Miss. — The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has confirmed the first death from a human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the state this year. The death occurred in Washington County. MSDH does not provide details of the specific age or gender of the death out of respect and privacy for the family.
There have been 10 human cases of West Nile Virus reported in the state so far this year. For a list of county-by-county cases, visit msdh.ms.gov/wnvcases.
West Nile Virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. You can take steps to reduce your risk of mosquito exposure:
Protect Yourself
- Stay indoors or take personal protective measures, especially between dusk and dawn, which are peak mosquito biting times.
- Use mosquito repellent with DEET. Products with up to 30 percent DEET will provide adequate protection under most conditions. Use DEET concentrations of 10 percent or less on children ages 2-12 years of age. For children less than 2 years of age, parents should consult their pediatrician.
- Wear long-sleeved, long-legged clothing with socks and shoes when practical.
Protect Your Home
- Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers.
- Remove all discarded tires on the property. Close garbage can lids. Be sure water does not collect in the bottom of garbage cans.
- Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.
For more information on mosquito protection and WNV, visit msdh.ms.gov/wnv.
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Press Contact: MSDH Office of Communications, (601) 576-7667
Note to media: After hours or during emergencies, call (601) 576-7400
