West Nile Virus

Latest news on the West Nile virus (WNV), a virus that causes West Nile fever, a disease that can affect humans and animals. It is spread by mosquitoes, mostly species of Culex. Most people with WNV have no symptoms, but some may develop mild flu-like symptoms, a skin rash or feel sick. In rare cases, WNV can cause severe infections that can lead to brain inflammation, muscle weakness, confusion or seizures. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for WNV, so prevention is important. You can avoid mosquito bites by using insect sprays and mosquito nets when visiting high-risk areas.