Report within 24 hours of Diagnosis to the Local Health Department.
West Nile virus is an infection that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Identified in the United States in 1999, West Nile virus is seen most often during the summer and early fall months. Anyone can get infected with West Nile virus. People over age 50 and people with weak immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness. Mild symptoms are flu-like and may include fever, headache, body aches and sometimes a rash. Severe symptoms can include high fever, stiff neck and swelling of the brain. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. The best way to prevent the disease is to avoid mosquito bites.
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