Mississippi health officials report eight new cases of West Nile virus, bringing the state's total number to 42 with one death.

The Mississippi Department of Health said the new cases are in Hinds (2), Jones (2), Lamar, Leake, Neshoba and Scott counties.

West Nile infection can cause encephalitis or meningitis in a small number of people. Those illnesses can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.

The health department conducts statewide mosquito testing with its most intensive surveillance during the peak West Nile virus mosquito reproduction months of July, August and September.