West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne illness that’s most commonly spread during the warmer months. While most people who become infected experience few or no symptoms, it's important to know what to watch for — especially in areas where the virus has been detected.
“West Nile virus is a common illness during the summer months in North Dakota, although most people are asymptomatic,” said Dr. Marc Nielsen, Medical Director of Primary Care at Altru. “Less than 1% of infected people develop severe disease. Those at highest risk are older or have a weakened immune system.”
Common Symptoms
About 1 in 5 people infected with WNV will develop mild symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pain
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Rash
These symptoms usually appear within 2 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and often resolve on their own.
Serious Complications
In rare cases, West Nile Virus can lead to serious illness affecting the brain or nervous system.
- Symptoms of severe infection may include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Disorientation or confusion
- Tremors or seizures
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for serious complications.
When to Seek Care
You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Persistent high fever
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Muscle weakness or sudden changes in movement
- Severe headache that doesn’t improve
These could be signs of a serious infection that requires immediate medical attention.
Prevention Is Key
“There is no cure or vaccine for West Nile virus,” said Dr. Nielsen. “Prevent West Nile virus by utilizing EPA-registered insect repellants, wearing long sleeve shirts and pants, limiting time outdoors during peak mosquito hours, and removing standing water around you home.”
To reduce your risk of West Nile Virus:
- Use insect repellent with DEET or another EPA-registered ingredient
- Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk
- Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed
If you have concerns about symptoms or exposure, don’t hesitate to schedule with your primary care provider or by using MyChart.altru.org.