HINDS COUNTY, Miss.- The first death caused by West Nile Virus has occurred in Hinds County, reported the Mississippi State Department of Health.
No identity on the deceased has been released yet.
“This sadly serves as an important reminder of the severity of West Nile virus, even though most of us will have no symptoms at all or the illness is mild,” said state epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers. “We are currently in peak West Nile season in Mississippi, so all residents should be mindful of protecting themselves, regardless of whether there has been a case reported in your county.”
Most individuals do not seek medical attention for their symptoms which can eventually lead to infection and death.
West Nile symptoms include fever, headache, rashes, fatigue, lack of sleep, and infections.
So far this year Mississippi has reported 18 cases across the state.
