An estimated that 80% of people infected by West Nile virus never experience symptoms.  Most of the remaining 20% will experience relatively mild illness, with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pains, a skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea and vomiting.  Less than one percent (approximately one of every 150 people) infected with WNV become seriously ill. 

Older persons are at an increased risk of severe illness from WNV. Severe symptoms include a sudden onset of a high fever, neck stiffness, extreme muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions, or disorientation.   Hospitalization and death may occur as a result of serious illness from WNV.

There is no specific treatment or vaccine for humans infected with WNV but physicians treat patients to minimize symptoms of the infection. If you think you may have been infected with WNV, contact your health care provider.

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