What is West Nile Virus?

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease that is common in Africa, west Asia, the Middle East, and more recently, North America. Human infection with WNV may result in serious illness. Experts believe WNV is established as a seasonal epidemic in North America that flares up in the summer and continues into the fall.

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1. What is West Nile Virus?
2. What are the symptoms of WNV?
3. When was West Nile Virus (WNV) first found in the United States?
4. When was West Nile Virus (WNV) first found in California?
5. How is West Nile Virus (WNV) detected and monitored in California?
6. How is West Nile Virus transmitted?
7. How soon do infected people get sick?
8. How is West Nile Virus (WNV) infection treated?
9. What should I do if I think I have West Nile Virus (WNV)?
10. If you have had West Nile Virus (WNV) are you immune (protected) to further infections?
11. Who is at greatest risk of getting severely ill from West Nile Virus?
12. Can animals get sick from West Nile Virus (WNV)?
13. What can a person do to prevent getting sick from West Nile Virus?
14. Can the public assist in detecting West Nile Virus by reporting dead birds?
15. What are state and local agencies doing to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus (WNV) transmission?