Monday, four new cases of West Nile Virus were discovered, bringing the total to 51 cases this year, according to a Mississippi State Department of Health release.
Three of the most recent cases were reported in Hinds County and one was reported in Lowndes County.
Although no cases have been reported in Pearl River County, 24 of the 82 counties in Mississippi have reported at least one case of West Nile Virus. The counties that have reported the most cases are in the center of Mississippi and include Hinds (11), Rankin (6) and Madison (4). Forrest County, which shares a border with Pearl River County, has reported four cases, the release states.
Two deaths due to the virus have been reported, according to the release. In 2016, the MSDH reported 43 cases and two deaths.
According to the release, Mississippi reports the most cases of West Nile Virus from July through September, although cases can occur anytime of the year.
Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes, the release states.
To prevent the mosquito-borne illness, Mississippi residents should use mosquito repellent with DEET while outdoors, remove all sources of standing water around the home to prevent breeding, wear loose, light-colored apparel while outdoors and avoid areas where mosquitoes are most prevalent, according to the release.