What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is a flavivirus that infects birds and is transmitted by mosquito bites. Humans and animals can also be infected by the bite of a mosquito.
What is West Nile Fever?
West Nile fever is usually a mild disease in people, who have symptoms much like the flu, lasting only a few days with full recovery. About 1 in 5 of people exposed to the virus by a mosquito bite develop this mild disease, although most have no symptoms or disease at all.
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Symptoms of West Nile Fever
What is West Nile Encephalitis?
In some people the virus causes West Nile encephalitis, West Nile meningitis, or West Nile meningoencephalitis. These are inflammations of the brain and brain lining which are very serious and can be fatal. About 1 in 150 people infected will get this form of the disease.
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Symptoms of West Nile Encephalitis
Is Anyone at Special Risk?
Everyone is at risk, but people over age 50 have a greater risk of developing the more severe disease. With infection of a pregnant woman, there is no risk to the fetus.
Can I Get it From People, Birds, or Horses?
No. It does not spread from person to person or from animals to people. It only spreads through mosquito bites. The virus has to incubate inside the mosquito before it is infectious to animals and humans.
How Do I Protect Myself?
Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
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Eliminate pools of standing water around your house where mosquitoes may breed. Once a week empty water from flower pots, pet dishes, birdbaths, buckets, swimming pool covers, clogged rain gutters, cans, etc.
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Maintain window and door screens to keep insects out of your house.
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Use a mosquito net over cribs or beds if you can't keep the bugs out of the house.
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Use a DEET-based insect repellent when going outdoors.
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Spray your clothing with a DEET or permethrin spray when going outdoors, and wear long loose sleeves and long loose pants.
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