FAQ: West Nile Virus Symptoms, Prevention

Editor's Note: were found to have West Nile virus. In response to many reader emails and questions, Patch is republishing a frequently asked question guide from Virginia Department of Health news materials concerning West Nile virus.

From the Virginia Department of Health:  

How is West Nile virus spread?
West Nile virus is usually spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes are infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. West Nile virus is not spread from person to person or directly from birds to humans, but some cases have resulted from blood transfusion and organ transplants, and there has been one case of an infected mother transmitting the virus to her unborn child.

I’ve gotten a mosquito bite.  Should I be tested for West Nile virus infection?
No, most mosquitoes are not infected with West Nile virus. See a physician if you develop the symptoms below.

What are the symptoms of West Nile virus infection? 
The disease may be mild or serious. Mild illness includes fever and muscle aches, swollen lymph glands and sometimes a skin rash.  In the elderly, infection may spread to the nervous system or bloodstream and cause sudden fever, intense headache, and stiff neck and confusion, possibly resulting in encephalitis or meningitis. Children and young adults are less likely to have severe symptoms than older adults.

How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?
The symptoms generally appear about 2 to 15 days after exposure.

Does past infection with West Nile virus make a person immune?
Yes, a person who gets West Nile virus probably cannot get it again.

What is the treatment for West Nile virus infection? Is there a vaccine for West Nile virus?
There is no specific treatment. Supportive therapy will be used in more severe cases. Most people recover from this illness. There is no vaccine for humans.        

How can West Nile virus infection be prevented?

By controlling the mosquito population and protecting against mosquito bites in the following ways:
1. Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing. 
2. If possible, stay indoors when mosquitoes are biting. 
3. Use insect repellant with the smallest percentage of DEET necessary for the length of time you are exposed to mosquitoes. Use according to the manufacturer’s directions and DEET should not be applied to infants under 2 months old.
4. Turn over or remove containers in your yard where water collects, such as old tires, potted plant trays, buckets and toys.  
5. Eliminate standing water on tarps or flat roofs.
6. Clean out birdbaths and wading pools once a week.  
7. Clean roof gutters and downspout screens.