How do you get west nile virus?

People get West Nile virus from the bite of a mosquito that has fed on an infected bird. Mosquitoes can't transmit the virus from one person to another. It's also possible to get West Nile virus from a blood transfusion or an organ transplant from an infected donor. read more

If you have West Nile virus, you will typically show the first virus symptoms within three to 14 days of being bitten. West Nile virus symptoms vary in severity. Severe symptoms can include: fever; confusion; convulsions; muscle weakness; vision loss; numbness; paralysis; coma; A severe infection can last for several weeks. read more

West Nile virus is not spread: Through coughing, sneezing, or touching; By touching live animals; From handling live or dead infected birds. Avoid bare-handed contact when handling any dead animal. If you are disposing of a dead bird, use gloves or double plastic bags to place the carcass in a garbage can. Through eating infected birds or animals. read more