The Mississippi State Department of Health reported three more cases of Zika virus have appeared in the state.
These new cases bring the total number of Zika cases in Mississippi to eight this year.
The most recent cases were from Chickasaw, Hinds and Rankin counties, according to a press release from MSDH. The Mississippi residents who had the virus had recently returned from trips to St. Thomas, Nicaragua and Guatemala.
MSDH has also confirmed four cases of West Nile virus (WNV) this year. Last year, Mississippi had 38 cases of WNV and one death from the virus, according to the release.
“At least 46 other U.S. states and territories have already reported travel-associated cases,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Thomas Dobbs. “Now that school is out, we know it is a popular time for mission trips and vacations to these areas. Please be especially mindful of protecting yourself from mosquitoes while you’re abroad. Simple steps can make a big difference.”
MSDH suggests residents protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika and WNV by using EPA-registered repellent outdoors, removing all sources of standing water around their home, wearing loose clothing that covers arms and legs when outdoors and by avoiding areas where mosquitoes are prevalent.
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