West Nile Virus is a disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on the blood from infected birds.
The infected mosquitoes can then transmit West Nile Virus to humans and animals. West Nile disease can vary in severity. People 50 years of age and older have the highest risk of severe disease.
Severe West Nile infections can cause neurologic complications such as encephalitis. Milder symptoms include fever, headache and muscle aches.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WEST NILE
- Is it contagious?
No. West Nile is not spread through contact from person to person or from animal to person. - How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of WNV requires a special blood test. Anyone who experiences symptoms of severe WNV illness should see a physician as soon as possible. - What is the treatment?
There is no specific treatment for WNV infection. Patients receive supportive medical care and rehabilitation if needed. - What if I’m not experiencing any symptoms?
Most infected people will show no symptoms. Symptoms typically develop between 3 to 14 days after a mosquito bite. - For other Frequently Asked Questions about West Nile Virus
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To report mosquito activity click here
Download DCHHS’ West Nile prevention materials by clicking the links below:
DCHHS West Nile fact sheet Texas Department of State Health Services fact sheet |
Read West Nile Watch – a digital publication that is produced during the season which contains up-to-date information on infected mosquito pools, control efforts and prevention tips.
Click here for current issue
Take a virtual tour of a home with potential mosquito breeding sites at http://mosquitosafari.tamu.edu/.
Visit http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm or
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/disease/arboviral/westnile/ for more information.