The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has confirmed Mississippi’s first four West Nile virus human cases of the calendar year.
According to a social media post from the MSDH, the cases were found in Hinds, Jackson, and Lamar counties.
MSDH has just confirmed the first four West Nile Virus human cases in Mississippi for this year, in Hinds, Jackson and Lamar counties. Peak #WNV season can run through October, so take precautions against mosquitoes that spread the virus. See https://t.co/5ukUcFAdnw #FightTheBite pic.twitter.com/G4CdZOEADD
— MS Dept of Health (@msdh) August 17, 2023
With peak West Nile virus season running through October, the MSDH has offered the following tips:
- Use a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient such as DEET while you are outdoors.
- Remove all sources of standing water around your home and yard to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Wear loose, long clothing to cover the arms and legs when outdoors.
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes are prevalent.
Mississippi was one of the last states in the southeastern U.S. to confirm a case of West Nile virus this year, with Louisiana (9), Tennessee (2), Arkansas (1), and Alabama (1) all confirming cases prior to Thursday.
