05/08/26 Public Health Education Topic: West Nile Virus

Per CDC:

Key points

• West Nile virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.

• Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Severe illness can affect the central nervous symptom and result in hospitalization or death.

• No licensed vaccines or medicines are available to prevent or treat West Nile virus disease (West Nile) in people.

Symptoms

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms.

Mild illness

Some people develop mild illness with flu-like symptoms, such as fever with headache or body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with mild illness recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months.

Severe illness

Some people develop severe illness, which can affect the central nervous system or illness that results in hospitalization or death. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, or paralysis. Recovery from severe illness can take several weeks or months. Some effects may be permanent.

When to see a doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, confusion, or tremors.

When to expect symptoms

Symptoms usually start 2–6 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. It may take longer for symptoms to start, especially for people with a weakened immune system.

Risk of infection

Anyone who lives in or travels to an area where West Nile virus circulates is at risk of infection. All states in the contiguous United States have reported cases of West Nile.

Prevention

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites. No licensed vaccines or medicines are available to prevent West Nile.

To learn more visit: About West Nile | West Nile Virus | CDC