West Nile Virus (WNV) is not spread from person to person, it is only transmitted to people when a mosquito bites an infected bird and then bites a person. Although the chances of being bitten by an infected mosquito are small, WNV is serious and has infected over 4,000 people in the United States. Less than 1% of people infected by the virus will develop severe illness. Fatality rates range from 3% - 15% and are highest among the elderly. Dr. Gail Hansen, the Acting State Epidemiologist for the State of Kansas, wants Kansans to be aware of the seriousness of WNV. “Even if you are bitten by an infected mosquito, your chances of becoming seriously ill are small. WNV rarely causes illness or death in humans, but it is possible.”
Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms. People with mild or no symptoms do not need to be treated. If symptoms do occur, they may not show up for 3– 5 days after being bitten. Some people infected may develop mild symptoms much like that of the flu including fever, headaches, body aches, swollen lymph glands, or a body rash. The few who develop encephalitis may have severe symptoms such as headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and coma. If you experience these symptoms contact a physician or hospital immediately. In rare cases West Nile Virus can cause death.
To learn more about West Nile Virus and preventing infection go to www.oznet.ksu.edu/westnilevirus.