West Nile virus has spread in the U.S. in the last 25 years.
Mosquitoes can pass West Nile virus to humans after they bite infected birds.
Infections typically spike in August and September but can happen any time of year.
Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
These symptoms can occur up to two weeks after an infection and may last for a month.
Although severe cases are rare, taking precautions is still crucial to avoiding an infection.
The problem is that it only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause an infection.
In some ways, you might think of it a bit like lightning.
Its been raining a lot and weve seen a boom in the mosquitoes right now.
For severe illness, healthcare providers help manage complications with anti-seizure medications or respiratory support, Steiner said.
Sometimes people have swollen lymph nodes or a rash.
Some might have some nausea or diarrhea, but most of these symptoms are pretty mild, Steiner said.
What This Means For You
Mosquitoes remain active year-round.
Protect yourself by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
If you experience symptoms like fever or body aches after a mosquito bite, consult a healthcare provider.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.West Nile virus: current year data (2024).
Department of Health and Human Services.West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.
Penn Medicine.West Nile virus.
Minnesota Department of Health.West Nile encephalitis fact sheet.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.West Nile: symptoms, diagnosis, & treatment.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing mosquito bites.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing West Nile.
