Most people who are bitten by a mosquito with WNV will not get sick. People who do become ill may experience mild flu-like symptoms like fever, headache and body ache. It is estimated that less than 1 percent of the people who are infected with WNV become severely ill and require hospitalization. The elderly are particularly susceptible to illness caused by WNV.
Currently, there is no specific treatment for WNV infection. Since it is a virus, it does not respond to antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care is important. If you have symptoms of West Nile Virus, call your doctor. For more information please call 530-265-1222.