JACKSON, Miss — A second person living in Mississippi has died from a case of West Nile Virus this year, the Mississippi State Department of Health announced on Sept. 6, 2024.
Aside from verifying the patient had several underlying health conditions, MSDH has not revealed any further details about the person out of respect and privacy for the family.
Mississippi’s first West Nile Virus death was confirmed on Aug. 15, 2021. The state has seen 27 total cases of the virus in 2024.
West Nile Virus is transmitted through mosquito bites. MDSH recommends the following to protect from infection of the virus:
• Stay indoors or take personal protective measures, especially during peak mosquito biting times.
• Use an EPA-approved mosquito repellent with active ingredients such as DEET or picaridin.
•Wear long-sleeved, long-legged clothing with socks and shoes.
•Dispose of outdoor tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers.
•Remove all discarded tires on the property.
•Close garbage can lids. Be sure water does not collect in the bottom of garbage cans.
•Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
•Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.
