Many people get mosquito bites, but few get ill from West Nile virus. Most people infected with the virus have very mild or no symptoms. Less than 1 percent of people infected with West Nile virus get seriously ill.
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Treatment plans focus on relieving any bothersome symptoms, such as body aches or headache. People with severe illness may need to stay in the hospital to receive supportive therapies - such as intravenous fluids and breathing support - while their bodies work to fight the virus.
Learn more about the treatment of West Nile virus.
There is currently no vaccine approved for use in humans; however, researchers are actively seeking to develop a vaccine.
Learn more about whether there is a vaccine for West Nile virus.
The virus itself cannot be prevented, but you can take steps to reduce your risk of mosquito bites. The US Centers for Disease and Control offer these suggestions:
Apply insect repellent with the ingredient DEET to your exposed skin before going outdoors. (Use care when applying insect repellent to children. Do not put repellent on their hands, and be careful to avoid their mouths and eyes.)
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