Public Health Pest Management - Health Issues for West Nile Virus

Health Issues >> West Nile Virus (WNV)

West Nile virus is a disease normally found in Africa, West Asia and the Middle East. Only recently has its occurrence been documented in the United States. This virus is associated with birds and can be transmitted to human populations through mosquito bites.

Symptoms occur five to 15 days after infection and may include fever, headache and body aches, which may be accompanied by skin rashes and swollen lymph glands. In more severe cases, disorientation, coma, tremors and paralysis can occur. This disease is rarely fatal; the elderly are most at risk. There is no vaccine for West Nile Virus.

Wild Birds: When the virus first appeared in the United States, North Carolina was among many states that were able to get valuable information from the collection and testing of dead, wild birds. However, now that the virus has become established within the wild bird population, testing dead birds is no longer necessary. Therefore, North Carolina is no longer taking reports of dead wild birds or submitting any birds for testing. To check the policy in your area, please contact your local mosquito control program or health department for information specific to your area.

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