West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness. Experts believe WNV is now established as a seasonal epidemic in North America that flares up in the summer and continues into the fall. This fact sheet contains important information that can help you recognize and prevent West Nile virus.

WNV affects the central nervous system. Symptoms vary.

People typically develop symptoms between 3 and 14 days after they are bitten by the infected mosquito.

There is no specific treatment for WNV infection. In cases with mild symptoms, people experience symptoms such as fever and aches that pass on their own. In more severe cases, people usually need to go to the hospital where they can receive supportive treatment including intravenous fluids, help with breathing and nursing care.

Mild WNV illness improves on its own, and people do not necessarily need to seek medical attention for this infection. If you develop symptoms of severe WNV illness, such as unusually severe headaches or confusion, seek medical attention immediately. Severe WNV illness usually requires hospitalization.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers are encouraged to talk to their doctor if they develop symptoms that could be WNV.

For most, risk is low. Less than 1 percent of people who are bitten by mosquitoes develop any symptoms of the disease and relatively few mosquitoes actually carry WNV.

Greater risk for those outdoors a lot. People who spend a lot of time outdoors are more likely to be bitten by an infected mosquito. They should take special care to avoid mosquito bites.

People over 50 can get sicker. People over the age of 50 are more likely to develop serious symptoms of WNV if they do get sick and should take special care to avoid mosquito bites.

Risk through medical procedures is low. The risk of getting WNV through blood transfusions and organ transplants is very small, and should not prevent people who need surgery from having it. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor before surgery.

The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites.

If you find a dead bird: Don’t handle the body with your bare hands. Contact your local health department for instructions on reporting and disposing of the body.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/westnile, or call the CDC public response hotline

at (888) 246-2675 (English), (888) 246-2857 (Español), or (866) 874-2646 (TTY)

This above information is from the Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control and Prevention dated June 9, 2003.

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