About West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is a disease transmitted to people from the bite of an infected mosquito. It has been commonly found in humans, birds and other animals in Africa, Europe, Western Asia and the Middle East.

The virus attacks the central nervous system, causing symptoms ranging from fever and headaches to encephalitis, and can be fatal. For most people, the risk of catching West Nile Virus is low. People who spend time outdoors when mosquitoes are present, or those over 50 years old are at an increased risk.

Many people who are exposed to West Nile Virus will not show any symptoms. Around 20 percent of people who become infected will show symptoms including fever, headache and body aches, nausea, vomiting and possibly swollen lymph glands or a rash on the chest, stomach and back. These symptoms occur three to 14 days after a person is bitten, and usually last a few days.

In some people, the disease may be more serious, causing high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. The symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

West Nile Virus is carried by birds. Crows and blue jays are particularly susceptible, but many species of birds in Ohio have tested positive for the disease. Mosquitoes can become infected by biting an infected bird. Some mosquitoes have been able to pass the virus to their offspring. Infected mosquitoes can spread West Nile Virus to other animals.

West Nile Virus cannot be transmitted through touching or kissing. In rare occasions, West Nile Virus has been transmitted from breast feeding, during pregnancy from mother to child, and during tissue transplants and blood transfusions. All blood collected in the United States is now tested for West Nile Virus.

Currently, there is a vaccine available to protect horses and some other livestock from West Nile Virus. While many companies are working on a human vaccine, none have been approved. The best protection against West Nile Virus is to eliminate juvenile mosquito habitats and reduce your exposure to mosquito bites.