Most people who are infected with West Nile virus will not have any type of illness. It is estimated that 20% of the people who become infected will develop West Nile fever: mild symptoms, including fever, headache, and body aches, occasionally with a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands.

Most people who are infected with WNV either have no symptoms or experience mild illness such as fever, headache and body aches before fully recovering. Some persons may develop a mild rash or swollen lymph glands. In some individuals, particularly the elderly, WNV can cause serious disease that affects the brain tissue. At its most serious, it can cause permanent neurological damage and can be fatal.

West Nile virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Some people never have symptoms, but others experience a range of symptoms that can include fever, headache, muscle aches and sometimes paralysis. Someone suffering a severe headache or other neurological signs should see their doctor for testing. Free blood testing for arboviruses is offered by the DOH laboratories. The proper diagnosis is important for a better chance of survival.

West Nile virus, which causes West Nile fever, encephalitis and meningitis, is a mosquito-borne virus that first appeared in the United States in 1999. After being found in bird populations in the metropolitan New York area, it has since spread across the United States. As of fall 2006, six birds and one horse with West Nile Virus have been reported in King County.

According to the most recent reports that we have heard, one llama was suspected of having had West Nile Virus, but it was not confirmed. There has been a confirmed case in an alpaca.

Infection with WNV can be asymptomatic (no symptoms), or can lead to West Nile fever or severe West Nile disease. It is estimated that about 20% of people who become infected with WNV will develop West Nile fever. Symptoms include fever, headache, tiredness, and body aches, occasionally with a skin rash (on the trunk of the body) and swollen lymph glands. While the illness can be as short as a few days, even healthy people have reported being sick for several weeks.

Fort Dodge Animal Health developed a WNV horse vaccine granted full approval U.S. Department of Agriculture. The vaccine is effective in preventing West Nile encephalitis in 95 percent of vaccinated, according to the company. It is important that horses are vaccinated twice, 3 to 6 weeks apart with the WNV vaccine. One to two boosters are recommended after the initial series. Avoid vaccinating pregnant mares in the first trimester of gestation.

West Nile virus is a flavivirus commonly found in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East. It is closely related to St. Louis encephalitis virus found in the United States. The virus can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and some other mammals. West Nile fever is a case of mild disease in people, characterized by flu like symptoms. West Nile fever typically lasts only a few days and does not appear to cause any long-term health effects.

No, People become infected by the bite of a mosquito infected with West Nile virus. There is no evidence that a person can get the virus from handling live or dead infected birds. However, you should avoid using your bare hands when handling any dead animals.

this time, there is no vaccine approved for llamas against West Nile Virus. We hope that by the spring, when the mosquitos are out in force again, a vaccine will have been developed. We will keep you posted as we learn more.

If a person has signs of encephalitis, with fever, muscle weakness, and confusion, he or she should seek medical care as soon as possible.

A hunter should follow the usual precautions when handling wild animals. If you anticipate being exposed to mosquitoes, apply insect repellents to clothing ONLY, according to label instructions, to prevent mosquito bites. Read the important attached document on the proper use of DEET. Wear gloves when handling and cleaning animals to prevent blood exposure to bare hands. Cook meat thoroughly.