West Nile virus (WNV) causes an infection that is spread by a certain types of mosquitos. Most people with WNV have no symptoms and are often unaware they even have the virus. Some people can develop mild flu-like symptoms, nausea, and skin rash. The infection usually goes away without treatment. The virus is not contagious and can only be contracted by being bitten by an infected mosquito.

In severe cases the infection can cause muscle weakness, confusion, and seizures alongside flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, WNV can lead to swelling of the brain (encephalitis), swelling of the spinal cord (myelitis), or swelling of the tissue around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

Avoiding exposure to mosquitoes is the best option for preventing West Nile Virus and other mosquito borne illnesses. Wearing long-sleeved clothing when outdoors in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity at times such as dawn, dusk and early evening, and wearing mosquito repellent will help avoid being bitten by mosquitos.

You will need to have a blood test to confirm if you are infected with WNV. Most people will recover without treatment, but severe cases will require hospitalization with intravenous fluids and pain medication.