Human West Nile virus case reported in Yazoo Co. | Environment

YAZOO COUNTY, MS (WLBT) - Monday, the Mississippi Department of Health announced seven new human cases of West Nile virus, inclduing one in Yazoo County.

So far this year, cases have been reported in Lauderdale, Hancock, Lincoln, Marion, Yazoo, Hinds, Jones, Forrest, Covington, Coahoma and Wayne counties.

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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