Health Department reports third human case of West Nile

LINCOLN COUNTY — The Mississippi State Health Department is reporting a third human case of West Nile virus in the state.

The new case is in Lincoln County. Other cases are in Lauderdale and Hancock counties. Mississippi had 52 cases and five deaths from West Nile virus last year.

MSDH has identified WNV positive mosquitoes in Forrest, Pike, Lincoln and Rankin counties. MSDH has also performed mosquito testing in Hinds, Madison, Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, Scott, Yazoo, Jones and Leflore counties.

Health officials say that indicates the virus is circulating in Mississippi.

Health officials say residents should take precautions to reduce the risk by removing sources of standing water where mosquitoes breed and to wear long pants and sleeves in mosquito-prone areas during peak times from dusk until dawn. Mosquito repellent is also recommended.