“The majority of our cases do not recall being bitten by a mosquito,” stated Dr. Walker. “It’s not enough for people just to be on the lookout for mosquitoes. People need to continue precautions such as using repellant with DEET, or the two new agents approved by the FDA; one contains picaridin and the other oil of lemon eucalyptus. All three preparations are available locally.”

West Nile virus is not spread from person-to-person. WNV is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. People typically develop symptoms from 2 – 15 days after they are bitten by an infected mosquito.