New case of West Nile virus reported in Madison Co. | Environment

JACKSON, MS (WLBT) - Monday, the Mississippi Department of Health reported 12 new human West Nile virus cases, including one in Madison County. Twenty-four cases of WNV and one death have been reported in Madison County so far this year.

Across the state, a record 213 cases of West Nile virus and five deaths have been reported this year.

In 2011, Mississippi had 52 WNV cases and five deaths.

The Mississippi State Department of Health recommends the following precautions to reduce the risk of contracting WNV:

• Remove sources of standing water, especially after rainfall.
• If you will be in mosquito-prone areas, wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, during peak times from dusk until dawn.
• Use a recommended mosquito repellent according to manufacturer's directions.

Symptoms of WNV 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, according to MSDH.

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