First case of West Nile Virus reported in Hinds County

Amid dry conditions and rising temperatures, the Tulsa Health Department says multiple mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

There were seven confirmed or probable human West Nile cases a year ago, with one horse and 47 birds also getting the virus.

These are laboratory-confirmed cases. In 2015, MS had 38 WNV cases and one death.

West Nile cases normally peak in Wisconsin around August or September.

In previous years, WNV has been reported from all parts of the state. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash, and fatigue. In rare instances, infection can result in encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.

Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent that contains DEET while you are outdoors.

To eliminate mosquito breeding sites, health officials recommend disposing of items that hold standing water outside and cleaning roof gutters and downspouts for better drainage.

To place a complaint about mosquitoes in your area, call the Tulsa County Health Department at 918-595-4219.

“I think people tend to associate the wetness a little more with mosquitoes, but as we can see we’ve had sort of a blend of wet and dry this summer already and we have had our first human case”.