ATTALA COUNTY, MS (WLBT) - Monday, a new West Nile Virus case was reported by the Mississippi State Department of Health, bringing the state’s total to 31 so far for 2018.
The reported case is in Attala County.
So far this year human cases have been reported in Adams (2), Attala, Calhoun (2), Copiah, Forrest (2), Harrison (2), Hinds (11), Itawamba, Jones, Lauderdale, Madison, Marion, Oktibbeha, Pearl River, Rankin, Walthall and Washington counties.
State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers said that while most people with WNV infection recover without any long-term problems. However, some develop a more severe infection that can lead to complications and even death.
Symptoms of the infection are often mild and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes. In a small number of cases, infection can result in encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.
The MSDH suggests the following precautions to protect yourself and your family from mosquito-borne illnesses:
· 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 long, loose clothing to cover the arms and legs when outdoors.
· Avoid areas where mosquitoes are prevalent.
For more information on mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the MSDH website.