3 new cases of West Nile virus reported in Hinds Co. | Environment

JACKSON, MS (WLBT) - Monday, the Mississippi Department of Health reported 17 new human West Nile virus cases, including three in Hinds County. Twenty-two cases of WNV have been reported in Hinds County this year.

So far this year, 186 cases of West Nile virus and four deaths have been reported in the state.

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.

Copyright 2012 WLBT. All rights reserved.