Who
is at risk of contracting West Nile virus?
Anyone can become infected with the virus. However, the very old are more
likely to become ill and develop serious symptoms when infected.
If
I live in an area where birds with West Nile virus have been reported
and a mosquito bites me am I likely to get sick?
No. Even in areas where mosquitoes do carry the virus, very few mosquitoes
(usually less than 1 out of 500) are infected. The chance that one mosquito
bite will be from an infected mosquito is very small.
If
bitten by an infected mosquito, will I get sick?
If bitten by an infected mosquito, your chances of developing illness
are roughly one in 300.
If
bitten, should I be tested for West Nile virus?
No. Most mosquitoes are not infected with the West Nile virus. Illnesses
related to mosquito bites are rare. However, you should see a doctor immediately
if you develop symptoms such as high fever, confusion, muscle weakness,
or severe headaches. Patients with mild symptoms are likely to recover
completely, and do not require any specific medication or laboratory testing.
Is
there a treatment for West Nile fever?
Although there is no specific treatment, medication or cure, the symptoms
and complications of the disease can be treated. Most people who get this
illness recover from it.
Is
there a vaccine for West Nile virus?
No vaccine for West Nile virus exists.
West
Hartford-Bloomfield Health District
693-C Bloomfield Avenue
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Ph: (860) 561-7900
Fax: (860) 561-7918
