When was West Nile Virus (WNV) first found in the United States?

West Nile virus was first detected in the United States in New York in 1999. Since then, WNV has spread to 48 states, and to Canada and Mexico. Last year there were 2,448 human cases of WNV detected in the United States, including 84 deaths. This is much lower than in 2003 when there were more than 10,000 human cases of WNV detected, including 262 deaths.

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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?