Two more West Nile Virus cases have been confirmed in Mississippi.

According to a press release from the Mississippi State Department of Health the two new cases were found in Adams and Rankin Counties.

These new cases bring the total to five confirmed West Nile Virus infections in Mississippi this year. So far, one confirmed case has been reported in Adams County, Hinds County and Newton County, while two confirmed cases were reported in Rankin County, the release states.

In rare instances the virus can be deadly, especially to the elderly and people with compromised immune systems.

However most cases of the virus are not life threatening, and some who are infected may just think they have a cold or flu. Symptoms can include headache, fever, chills, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness or pain in the joints.

More severe symptoms can include meningitis or encephalitis, but are reported to occur in less than one percent of all cases.

The best way to avoid contracting West Nile Virus is to protect from mosquito bites by using repellants that contain the ingredient DEET, eliminate standing water from around the home where mosquitos breed, wearing loose light colored clothing that covers the arms and legs and avoiding areas where mosquitos are most prominent.