JACKSON, Miss. — A second person has died this year from West Nile Virus in Mississippi, health officials confirmed Tuesday.

The victim was a resident of Madison County. The first death was in Yazoo County.

Health officials also confirmed six new cases of the virus, which makes fifteen confirmed cases so far this year.

Adams County and Hinds County each have had two cases, and Rankin County has had four. Bolivar, Covington, Forrest, Madison, Newtown, Yazoo and Wilkinson counties have all had one case.

In 2013, the state had 45 cases of West Nile Virus, five of which were deadly.

“We usually see the bulk of our West Nile cases in August, and peak season in Mississippi runs through September,” Dr. Thomas Dobbs, MSDH State Epidemiologist, said. “Sadly, it’s a reminder to all Mississippians to remain vigilant about protecting themselves and their environments from all mosquito-borne illnesses.”

To protect yourself from mosquitoes, use repellents that contain DEET, get rid of standing water, and wear loose, light-colored clothing that protects your arms and legs.