Officials have confirmed the first death from a human case of West Nile virus in Mississippi this year.
While the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) did not release any information about the identity of the individual who passed away from the virus, the agency did say the person was suffering from other underlying health conditions. As things stand, there have been a total of 17 confirmed West Nile cases in the state this year.
According to healthcare experts, the virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mississippians are encouraged to take the following steps to protect themselves and their homes.
- Stay indoors or take personal protective measures, especially between dusk and dawn, which are peak mosquito-biting times.
- Use an EPA-approved mosquito repellent with active ingredients such as DEET or picaridin. Products with up to 30 percent DEET will provide adequate protection under most conditions. Higher concentrations will provide longer-lasting protection. Use DEET concentrations of 10 percent or less on children ages 2-12. For children under 2 years old, parents should consult their pediatrician.
- Wear long-sleeved, long-legged clothing with socks and shoes when practical.
- Dispose of outdoor tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers.
- Remove all discarded tires on the property.
- Close garbage can lids.
- Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs.
A full breakdown of West Nile virus cases in Mississippi can be found here.
