The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) wants to remind Mississippians that while the peak West Nile virus (WNV) season has passed, the virus is still active in colder temperatures and residents should take all precautions to protect themselves.

Latest test results show that five additional human cases of WNV were acquired in late November and in December, bringing the state’s total number of human cases to 133 with three resulting in death. The additional cases were in Lamar, Hinds, Rankin (2) and Sunflower counties. The MSDH reports both confirmed and probable cases to the public.

"With these cases, the virus was contracted during the winter months, reminding us that West Nile virus infection can occur year-round, especially when we have patches of warm weather," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Mary Currier.
  
MSDH encourages all Mississippians to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of contracting WNV and other mosquito-borne illnesses: remove sources of standing water, avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active; wear protective clothing (such as long-sleeved shirts and pants) when in mosquito-prone areas; and apply a mosquito repellent according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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.

For more information on WNV and other mosquito-borne illnesses, a checklist to reduce the mosquito population in and around homes, and a brochure on WNV, visit the MSDH website at www.HealthyMS.com/westnile or call the WNV toll-free hotline from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1-877-WST-NILE (1-877-978-6453).

MDH continues to encourage Mississippians to take the following simple precautions to reduce their risk of contracting West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses: Remove sources of standing water Avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially between dusk and dawn when mosquito activity is highest Wear protective clothing (such as long-sleeved shirts and pants) when in mosquito-prone areas apply a mosquito repellent according to the manufacturer's instructions To protect your your home: Drain or dump any source of standing water around the home Dispose of containers and debris which can collect or hold water Remove all leaf debris Dispose of used tires Clean rain gutters and swimming pools Change the water in bird baths weekly Use over-the-counter larvaciding products that can be purchased at home improvement stores Eliminate pools of standing, stagnant water, especially with organic debris Repair damaged or torn window and door screens that stay open Regularly clean outdoor pet food and water dishes; remove any not being used Close garbage can lids and be sure water does not collect in the bottom of the cans Check around construction sites to ensure that proper backfilling and grading prevent drainage problems

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Press Contact: Liz Sharlot, Carol Jones or Elizabeth Grey, (601) 576-7667.