West Nile Virus

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reports that in most cases, individuals do not experience any symptoms from the West Nile virus. 

Mild infections may cause:

• fever
• headache
• body aches
• skin rash
• swollen lymph glands. 

More severe infections may cause:

• headache
• high fever
• neck stiffness
• disorientation
• tremors
• paralysis

In a small percentage of people, West Nile Virus can be fatal with the risk of developing a severe illness occurring in those over the age of 50. 

It is important to remember that in normal circumstances, only a small portion of the mosquito population is infected at any given period of time and being bitten by a mosquito does not mean a person will become infected or ill.