West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus (WNV) is carried by mosquitoes and can cause disease in humans, birds, horses, and some other mammals. The virus was found in the U.S. in 1999 and in Utah in August 2003.

The most common way to get infected is through the bite of a mosquito. Most people who become infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. Other symptoms include headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Less than 1% of people infected will develop a serious neurologic illness, such as meningitis.

Information for the General Public

• Fact Sheet
• Information About Insect Repellent
• Protection against Mosquitoes, Ticks, & Other Insects & Arthropods
• Educational Resources

Information for Public Health Departments

• Case Report Form
• Disease Plan

Information for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

• West Nile Virus and Pregnancy Fact Sheet (English) (Spanish)
• Use of DEET in Pregnancy (English) (Spanish)

Statistics/Surveillance

• Disease Statistics – U.S.
• Disease Surveillance – Utah

Resources

• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
• KidsHealth
• Mayo Clinic
• MedLine Plus
• National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases
• National Pesticide Information Center
• World Health Organization