More West Nile virus cases in state, none in DeSoto County

Aug 28, 2024 – According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, the state is seeing more cases of West Nile virus, a number that reached 27 today. There has been one death reported from the mosquito-borne virus, according to MSDH, but no cases or death reports have come from DeSoto County, the report showed.  

West Nile virus transmits to humans through mosquito bites. Mosquito-borne illnesses in Mississippi include West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis, Chikungunya virus, and Eastern Equine encephalitis. 

These illnesses affect birds, animals and humans, causing flu-like symptoms in people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes. Occasionally, illness can be severe, leading to meningitis or encephalitis.

Among the ways to protect yourself are the following:

• Use a recommended mosquito repellent
• Cover arms and legs with long sleeves and long skirts or pants
• Avoid mosquito-prone areas in the mornings and evenings, when mosquitoes are most prevalent
• Remove sources of standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed, and make sure window screens are in good condition.  

In the report from today, MSDH shows Rankin County with the most West Nile virus cases at six, followed by Hinds and Madison counties with five each.  There has been one reported case from Tate County, the closest reported case to DeSoto County. 

To learn more, visit the Mississippi State Department of Health West Nile virus webpage.