On Tuesday, the Mississippi State Department of Health confirmed the second death from West Nile Virus.

According to press release from the department of health, the death occurred in Madison County.

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness, the press release states.

So fart his year, West Nile Virus cases have been reported in Adams, Bolivar, Covington, Forrest and Rankin counties, bringing the total number of human cases to 15, the press release states.

“We usually see the bulk of our West Nile cases in August, and peak season in Mississippi runs through September,” Dr. Thomas Dobbs, MSDH State Epidemiologist said in the press release. “Sadly, it’s a reminder to all Mississippians to remain vigilant about protecting themselves and their environments from all mosquito-borne illnesses.”

The Mississippi State Department of Health stated in a press release a number of preventative measures to protect one’s self from mosquitoes.

Prevention measures include:

• Using mosquito repellant with DEET
• Eliminating standing water around home
• Wearing loose, long clothing to protect arms and legs while outdoors

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health’s website,there are many symptoms of the virus.

These symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Body aches
• Disorientation
• Tremors
• Convulsions

The website also states that in severe cases, paralysis or death can occur.

Mosquitos are most active between dusk and dawn, the MSDH website states, when the air is calm.

For more information about West Nile virus and other illnesses visit the Mississippi State Department of Health’s website at www.healthyms.com.