The country’s first case of West Nile virus for 2016 was confirmed just a few counties to our east.

Lamar County reported the first case in the state and nation last week. Though much of the media’s attention has been on the Zika virus lately, West Nile still poses a threat to Mississippi and the rest of the South.

In 2015, Mississippi had 38 West Nile virus cases and one death. The Health Department only releases statistics for laboratory-confirmed cases. Seven deaths were recorded in the state in 2014, five in 2013 and five in 2012.

The virus often causes mild symptoms that can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes. In a small number of cases, infection can result in encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.

The state Department of Health recommends avoiding times and places where mosquitoes bite. It also recommends using insect repellent and removing any standing water on your property. Below are a few more tips for reducing your chances of contracting a mosquito-carried virus.

• Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are most active.

• Repair failed septic systems

• Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed

• Dispose of old tires, cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other unused containers that can hold water

• Change the water at least once per week in bird baths, wading pools and other water containers on your property

• Cover trash containers to keep out rainwater

• Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains

• Repair leaky water pipes and outside faucets

• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with predatory fish

• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools even if they are not being used

• Keep drains, ditches and culverts free of grass clippings, weeds and trash so water will drain properly