West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease carried and most commonly spread to people and horses by the Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito (pictured). WNV is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevenntion (CDC).

WNV is considered an arbovirus -a group of viruses that are transmitted by bloodsucking arthropods (insects such as fleas, mosquitoes, ticks). Cases of WNV occur usually during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall.

There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat WNV in people.

Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About one in five people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About one out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal illness.

The best way to reduce your risk of West Nile Virus is by preventing mosquito bites.

Tarrant County Public Health (TCPH) continuously monitors mosquito-related illnesses and provides this Vector Information Hotline: 817-321-4709.

Arbovirus infections are reportable to TCPH at 817-321-5350.