West Nile Virus
About
West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, having become endemic since its introduction in 1999. The virus causes a range of symptoms from mild febrile illness to severe neuroinvasive disease, with older adults and immunocompromised individuals at highest risk for complications. Its persistent presence across the country necessitates ongoing public health efforts, including comprehensive mosquito control programs, public education on prevention measures, and surveillance systems to detect and respond to outbreaks promptly.
Resources
Last updated September 10, 2024
The following resources are intended for health departments, clinicians, and the general public.
West Nile Information
- West Nile Case Definition [CDC]
- US Cases [CDC]
- Preventing West Nile [CDC]
Health Department Response Templates
Overview: The following resources were identified by CORI and aim to support health departments responding to vector borne diseases, including West Nile cases. These resources are provided as a general guide and should be tailored to meet the specific requirements and regulations of your local or state health department or relevant authorities. It is crucial that the content and instructions align with current guidelines and legal standards established by your jurisdiction.
Case Investigation Templates
| Document | Purpose |
| Mosquito-borne Illness Case Investigation Form [Ohio Department of Health] | Case investigation form for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus
|
Communication Templates
| Document | Purpose |
| Sample Press Release: West Nile Virus Confirmation in Horse [Massachusetts Department of Public Health] | Communicate local detection of West Nile virus in a horse
|
Sample Press Release: West Nile Virus Confirmation in Human [Massachusetts Department of Public Health]
| Communicate local detection of West Nile virus in a human |
| Reverse 9-1-1 Message Template for Aerial Mosquito Spraying [Massachusetts Department of Public Health] | Templated message to notify community of upcoming mosquito spraying to prevent vector borne diseases |
| Sample Press Release: West Nile Virus Confirmation in Local Mosquito Population [Massachusetts Department of Public Health] | Communicate local detection of West Nile virus in mosquito population |
Health Department Response Plans
Overview: The following guidance materials have been developed by state and local health departments to help communities, providers, and clinic administrators prepare for, recognize, and respond to mosquito borne diseases, including West Nile virus, among others.
Response Plans
| Document | Purpose |
| Mosquito Borne Illness Surveillance and Response Plan [New York State Department of Health] | Provides mosquito and response guidelines for local health departments |
| Mosquito Repellent Guidance for School Staff [Massachusetts Department of Public Health] | Provides guidance to school staff on how to apply EPA-approved mosquito repellent |
Key Information for the General Public
Factsheets
- Fact Sheet for Outdoor Workers: West Nile Virus Information [New York State Department of Health]
- West Nile Virus [New York State Department of Health]
- What is West Nile Virus? [Massachusetts Department of Public Health]
- Mosquitoes and Disease--Frequently Asked Questions [New York State Department of Health]
- Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers: Information Related to Insecticide Use for Preventing the Spread of West Nile Virus [New York State Department of Health]
- Mosquitoes and Disease [New York State Department of Health]
Infographics
- Use Insect Repellents Safely! [New York State Department of Health]
- Tick and Insect Repellents: Deciding on Their Use [New York State Department of Health]