West Nile is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). West Nile virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. A mosquito becomes infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. You or your child cannot get West Nile virus from a person who has the disease. West Nile virus is not spread by person-to-person contact such as touching, kissing, or caring for someone who is infected.
New Yorkers can take steps to protect themselves during West Nile virus season by reducing the presence of mosquitos in their surroundings, and safely using insect repellent.
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Annual West Nile Virus Cases in NYC
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Last Updated: October 3, 2012
