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Avoid Mosquito Bites to Avoid Infection
Human illness from West Nile virus is rare, even in areas where the virus has been reported. The chance that any one person is going to become ill from a mosquito bite is low. You can further reduce your chances of becoming ill by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. To avoid mosquito bites:
- Apply insect repellent containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) when you're outdoors..
- When possible, wear long-sleeved clothes and long pants treated with repellents containing permethrin or DEET since mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing. Do not apply repellents containing permethrin directly to exposed skin. If you spray your clothing, there is no need to spray repellent containing DEET on the skin under your clothing.
- Consider staying indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening, which are peak mosquito biting times.
Limit the number of places available for mosquitoes to lay their eggs by eliminating standing water sources from around your home. Check to see if there is an organized mosquito control program in your area. If no program exists, work with your local government officials to establish a program. 
About the Virus, the Disease, and Its Spread
West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, and can infect people, horses, many types of birds, and some other animals. Most people who become infected with West Nile virus will have either no symptoms or only mild ones. However, on rare occasions, West Nile virus infection can result in severe and sometimes fatal illnesses.
There is no evidence to suggest that West Nile virus can be spread from person to person or from animal to person.
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