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    Infectious Disease Control Unit
    Mail Code: 1960
    PO BOX 149347 - Austin, TX 78714-9347
    1100 West 49th Street, Suite T801
    Austin, TX 78714

    Phone: (512) 776-7676
    Fax: (512) 776-7616


Facts for West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus West Nile Virus
(West Nile Virus, WNV, WestNile)
ICD-9 066.4; ICD-10 G93.3

West Nile Virus Questions

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What Are The Symptoms Of West Nile Virus (WNV)?


How Is It Spread?

West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no recorded proof of it being passed from person-to-person, animal-to-animal, or animal-to-person.

Can animals be infected with WNV?

Yes. However, the only domestic animals that appear to be harmfully affected by WNV are equines, such as horses. Wild birds can also develop severe symptoms and may have large die offs.

Where Has It Been and Where Is It Going?

West Nile virus is commonly found in Africa, Eastern Europe, West Asia, and the Middle East. It was first detected in the United States in 1999, during which time there was an outbreak of it in New York. By mid-June of 2002, it had traveled to the eastern portion of Texas. Since then, it has been reported in mosquitoes, birds (such as blue jays and crows), horses, and humans in Texas. There has also been a continued westward movement of the virus.

Can It Be Treated?


How Can I Reduce My Chances Of Being Infected?

  1. Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening.
  2. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever you are outdoors.
  3. Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin. An effective repellent may contain 35% DEET. Repellents may bother the eyes and mouth, so try to not apply them to the hands of children.
  6. It does not appear that a person can get WNV from handling live or dead infected birds. However, use gloves or double plastic bags when handling any dead animals, including birds.
  7. If you leave your house windows open, make sure they have screens.
  8. Do not allow water to stagnate in old tires, flowerpots, trash containers, swimming pools, birdbaths, pet bowls, etc.
Last updated September 18, 2013