JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Department of Health (MSDH) confirmed Monday that a Newton County resident has contracted the mosquito transmitted West Nile Virus.
“This is the second case of West Nile Virus in Mississippi this year,” said MSDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Thomas Dobbs, in a written statement. “This serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing mosquito exposure, particularly as we approach the historically active summer months.”
In February, MSDH reported the state’s first human case of the virus in Hinds County. Last year, the state had 45 West Nile Virus cases and five deaths.
You can protect yourself from mosquito bites, and reduce your risk of coming down with the virus by using repellent containing deet. MDHS also recommends you get rid of standing water around your home, which is a magnet for mosquito breeding.
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