What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?

Most people who are infected with the West Nile virus (WNV) will not have any type of illness. It is estimated that 20% of the people who become infected will develop West Nile fever with mild symptoms, including fever, headache, and body aches, occasionally with a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands. Incubation is usually 3 to 15 days.


It is estimated that 1 in 150 persons infected with the West Nile virus will develop a more severe form of disease. The symptoms of severe infection (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis) include:

  • Coma
  • Convulsions
  • Disorientation
  • Headache
  • High fever
  • Muscle weakness
  • Neck stiffness
  • Paralysis
  • Stupor
  • Tremors


All residents of areas where virus activity has been identified are at risk of getting West Nile encephalitis; persons over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe disease. It is unknown if immuno-compromised persons are at increased risk for WNV disease.

Show All Answers

1. What is West Nile Virus?
2. How is West Nile Virus Spread?
3. What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?
4. What other diseases do mosquitoes in North Carolina carry?
5. How can I protect myself?