Mayor Errick D. Simmons Offers Condolences and Urges Caution Following Washington County West Nile Virus Death
Greenville, MS (August 8, 2025)— Mayor Errick D. Simmons extends his deepest condolences to the family of the Washington County resident whose life was tragically lost to West Nile virus — the first such death in Mississippi this year.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the loved ones of the deceased,” said Mayor Simmons. “This heartbreaking loss reminds us all to take serious precautions to protect ourselves and our families from mosquito-borne illnesses.”
Mayor Simmons joins the Mississippi State Department of Health in urging residents to take preventive measures:
• Limit outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn).
• Use mosquito repellent with DEET (up to 30% for adults, 10% or less for children ages 2–12, and consult your pediatrician for children under 2).
• Wear long sleeves, pants, socks, and closed shoes when possible.
• Eliminate standing water in containers, tires, wading pools, and other areas where mosquitoes breed.
“This is a time for our community to come together in both compassion and caution,” Mayor Simmons added. “By following these safety measures, we can help prevent further illness and protect our community.”
