What are the symptoms?

Most people who become infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms.  Approximately 20% of people infected will experience headache, fever, skin rash, body aches, and/or swollen lymph glands.  These mild flu-like symptoms may develop 3-14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.  In a small number of people-about 1 in 150- the virus causes life-threatening inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)

What is the incubation period in humans for WN encephalitis?

 3-14 days                               

How long do symptoms last?

Remember most people who become infected with West Nile will have no symptoms at all.  In those who develop symptoms they may last from one to several days and in those rare cases hospitalization may occur and it could take one to three months for all the symptoms to completely disappear.

I think I have symptoms of WNV....what should I do? 

You should contact your health-care provider immediately.  If necessary, a blood sample may be drawn, and sent to a laboratory for testing.

A blood sample must be drawn and sent to a lab for testing to determine if you have WNV.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus.  Severe cases may result in hospitalization, to assure proper monitoring and supervision along with supportive care.

• Dress appropriately-long sleeve shirts and pants.
• Dusk and dawn - limit your outdoor activity during these peak mosquito hours.
• Drain any standing water-old tires, flower pots, birdbaths, etc.
• DEET-apply an insect repellant containing 20% to 30% DEET.  Follow directions

Is there other insect repellants we can use?

• Yes there is. -The CDC recently adopted new repellent guidance for the mosquito season. The updated guidance includes addition of two active ingredients - picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus 

Is there a vaccine against West Nile Encephalitis?

No

The principal route of infection is by the bite of an infected mosquito. You may become infected by blood transfusion or by organ transplants, however these routes are very rare.

My area has reported +mosquitoes, horses, and people with WNV, am I likely to get sick?

Remember most people that are infected with the WNV will not get sick.  Maybe 20% will get symptoms of the virus and only 1 in 150 will get sick enough to require hospitalization.

Can I get WNV from another person?

Remember, the route of infection is by the bite of an infected mosquito.  You may become infected by blood transfusion or by organ transplants, however these routes are very rare.

I am pregnant, am I or my unborn child at risk?

At this time, it is unknown if your unborn child would be affected.  Take precautions yourself to avoid mosquito bites and be sure to contact your doctor if you experience any symptoms.

Can I get WNV  directly from the birds?

Remember, the route of infection is by the bite of an infected mosquito.  There is no evidence of direct bird-to-human infection.  Birds do have their own external parasites and dead animals of all kinds can be infected with salmonella and botulism, so care should be taken when disposing of the carcass.  Like all wild game, hunters should be taking protective measures when handling their kills and cook game thoroughly.

Who is at risk for getting WNV Encephalitis?

Anyone can be infected with the virus and possibly develop severe symptoms.  Like many diseases, young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are most likely to develop the severe forms of WNV.  Everyone should take appropriate precautions.

Is WNV transmitted by blood transfusion or organ donation?

You may become infected by blood transfusion or by organ transplants, however these routes are very rare.  If you have received blood transfusions or an organ transplant be sure to contact your doctor if you experience any symptoms.

I had WNV.  Can I still donate blood?

Yes.  You will have developed antibodies to the virus, but the virus itself is no longer present and infectious.