Nine new human cases of West Nile virus were reported Monday in eight Mississippi counties, according to the Mississippi Department of Health.

Two of those infected by the mosquito-borne virus were Harrison County residents, the department said. There also was one case reported in each of the following counties: Hinds, Jones, Leflore, Perry, Covington, Forrest, and Panola.

The state’s total number of cases stands at 32, a news release said.

State medical Entomologist Dr. Jerome Goddard suggests using insect repellent for protection against mosquito bites.

“While there are many repellents with various active ingredients and different types of formulations, the ones containing DEET are generally the most effective,” Goddard said. “Products with the new active ingredient, Picaridin, also work well.”

As the state enters peak mosquito season, which is late summer to early fall, health officials are urging all Mississippians to take precautions to reduce the risk of contracting West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses.