How Do You Know If You Have West Nile Virus?
Symptoms of West Nile Virus
West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe.
Approximately 80% of people infected with WNV will not develop any symptoms.
About 20% of infected people will develop a mild illness, known as West Nile fever, with symptoms including:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Skin rash
- Swollen lymph nodes
Less than 1% of infected people will develop a severe illness, known as neuroinvasive disease, with symptoms including:
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Photophobia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Coma
- Paralysis
Diagnosis of West Nile Virus
WNV is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and a blood test that detects antibodies to the virus.
A blood test can be performed to detect the virus itself, but this test is not as sensitive as the antibody test.
Treatment of West Nile Virus
There is no specific treatment for WNV, and treatment is supportive.
For mild cases, treatment may include:
- Rest
- Pain relievers
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Fluids
For severe cases, treatment may include:
- Hospitalization
- Intravenous fluids
- Antiviral medications
- Mechanical ventilation
Prevention of West Nile Virus
The best way to prevent WNV is to avoid mosquito bites.
You can do this by:
- Wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors
- Using insect repellent
- Eliminating standing water around your home
- Using mosquito dunks in birdbaths and other water features
- Getting vaccinated against WNV
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