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.