MSDH reports first 2024 West Nile death

The Mississippi Department of Health on Thursday confirmed the state’s first death from West Nile Virus in 2024.

West Nile, which is primarily spread by infected mosquitos, is not usually deadly with just one in five people seeing any symptoms and one in 150 developing a severe illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In a news release, MSDH said the individual who died suffered from several underlying health conditions but is not releasing any further information about the person or where the death occurred out of respect for the family.

So far this year, MSDH data show Mississippi has reported 17 cases of West Nile Virus in humans, none of which were in Lauderdale County. Nationally 174 cases have been reported this year, CDC data show.

Residents are encouraged to take simple steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites including:

— Stay indoors or take personal protective measures, especially between dusk and dawn, which are peak mosquito biting times.

— Use an EPA-approved mosquito repellent with active ingredients such as DEET or picaridin. Products with up to 30% DEET will provide adequate protection under most conditions. Higher concentrations will provide longer-lasting protection. Use DEET concentrations of 10% or less on children ages 2-12. For children under 2 years, parents should consult their pediatrician.

— Wear long-sleeved, long-legged clothing with socks and shoes when practical.

Preventative measures taken around the home can also help reduce the number of mosquitos and opportunities for bites, such as:

— 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.

For more information about West Nile Virus or how to protect against mosquitoes, visit msdh.ms.gov/westnile.