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1. What is West Nile encephalitis?

Viruses and bacteria can cause encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) in humans and animals. West Nile encephalitis is a mosquito-borne infection of the brain caused by West Nile Virus. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

2. How do people get West Nile encephalitis?

People get West Nile encephalitis from the bite of a mosquito that is infected-primarily the Culex group of species. The mosquito gets infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. West Nile Virus is not spread by person-to-person contact or directly from birds to people. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

3. What is the transmission cycle of West Nile Virus in the environment?

Mosquitoes become infected with West Nile Virus when they feed on infected birds. These infected mosquitoes can then transmit West Nile Virus to humans and to other birds. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

4. Is it only humans who become ill when infected with West Nile Virus?

No. Certain animals can also become ill. For example horses can develop encephalitis. Also certain birds, such as crows, blue jays, robins, and some hunting birds, like hawks and falcons. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

5. What are the symptoms of West Nile encephalitis?

Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus have no symptoms or experience a mild illness, with fever and a headache. In some people, West Nile Virus can cause serious disease that affects the brain. It can cause serious neurological damage and be fatal.

Symptoms generally occur 3 to 5 days following the bite of an infected mosquito and range from slight fever, headache, rash, swollen lymph nodes and conjunctivitis (irritation of the eye), to rapid onset of a severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, coma or death. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

6. What percentage of West Nile Virus cases are fatal?

The fatality rate is 3% to 15% of people infected. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

7. What is the risk of contracting West Nile encephalitis?

It is limited to persons in areas where there is virus activity, and is higher in persons 50 years of age or older. A 1999 survey of residents living in the most affected area of New York City showed that about 3% of the residents had been infected, and had either no illness or only mild illness. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

8. Is there a treatment for West Nile encephalitis?

There is no specific therapy. In severe cases, supportive therapy-hospitalization, IV fluids, airway management, prevention of secondary infections (pneumonia) and nursing care-is needed. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

9. Is there a vaccine for West Nile encephalitis?

There is no human vaccine at this time. There is a vaccine for horses, so consult with your veterinarian if you would like to vaccinate your horses. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

10. If bitten by a mosquito should I be tested?

Illness related to mosquito bites are rare. However, see a doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as, high fever, confusion, muscle weakness or severe headaches. People with mild symptoms are likely to recover completely and do not require any medication or lab testing. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

11. Why is the state testing birds, and what should I do if I find a dead bird?

Crows, blue jays, and robins seem to be sensitive to West Nile Virus and provide an early warning system for detection of West Nile Virus activity. If a dead crow, blue jay, or robin is found between May 1 and October 15 and appears to have died of natural causes, please report to the Woodford County Health Department. We will be keeping a log of dead birds and locations.

We will also be sending in up to 10 birds (crows, blue jays, robins or other perching birds) for testing. Any birds submitted for testing must be dead less than 48 hours. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

12. How can West Nile Virus infection be prevented?

Elimination of breeding sites:
-Change the water in bird baths and toddler pools weekly
-Cover hot tubs, boats, canoes when not in use
-Get rid of old tires
-Maintain swimming pools
-Municipalities should consider applying larvicides in storm sewers in areas active with West Nile Virus
-Put goldfish or bubblers in ornamental ponds
-Store buckets, pet bowls, any containers, inside

Protect self and others from bites:
-Alert health authorities to potential breeding sites in your area
-Apply insect repellents containing Deet to clothing and skin, follow label directions
-Avoid activities in areas where mosquitoes are present
-Maintain window and door screens in your home
-Report dead birds to the Health Department
-Wear long-sleeved shirt and pants when outdoors

Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.